Dunfermline and West Fife MP Willie Rennie is encouraging Kingdom groups undertaking environmental projects to apply for the Action Earth and Scottish Natural Heritage grants that were launched recently.

Scottish Natural Heritage are offering biodiversity grants of up to £250 in support of groups carrying out practical environmental projects that aim to upgrade wildlife habitats in the Kingdom. Previous recipients of this grant have used the money to renovate ponds, install bat and bird boxes, and plant wildflower meadows. CSV Action Earth Awards of £50 are also available to help groups cover the costs of materials and volunteer expenses.

Mr Rennie is encouraging any local groups who think they may be eligible for support to consider submitting an application. The next funding round is open until the end of July 2009, and full details of the scheme, application forms and eligibility details can be found online at www.actionearth.org.uk.

Commenting, Mr Rennie said:

‘People who give their own time to help preserve the local wildlife perform a valuable public service, and deserve all the support we can offer them.

‘These grants could make a huge difference to local groups working to protect the natural beauty of the Kingdom, and I would encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to apply while the funding is available’