One Million Euros of Funding Allocated so far!
Farmers, foresters, rural business and community groups have so far shared in over 1 million Euros worth of funding. That’s £920,000, plus there is more to allocate.
The £920,000 allocated by the LEADER fieldfare Local Action Group to 78 projects since 2009, has triggered over £4 million of investment in the local area.
The most resent projects included funding for a rural business Scarlet Bakes and a Village Hall refurbishment.
Scarlet Bakes is a small artisan food company based in rural Winchester and is run by two 'baking mad' mums. They have developed a range of unique cookie mixes, using the best ingredients, lovingly layered into glass Kilner jars, or available as party bags. The LEADER grant will enable the company to develop their outdoor events.
LEADER funding for Swarraton & Northington Village Hall, will help refurbish this vital asset for the local community. The funding has enabled the community to purchase and install a new kitchen and improve storage facilities. The new facilities will provide a great community space and ensure that local events can accommodate many more people.
Jo Marshall, Treasurer of Swarraton & Northington Village Hall Committee said, “It’s so exciting to be replacing our old and broken village hall kitchen after 40 years. The new one will enable us to run much larger community events, including events using external caterers. They wouldn’t come near the kitchen before – but now they’ll definitely have everything they need. Thank you so much for all your help in securing an amazing £32,906.25. No one can believe we got all the money we asked for. Ken, who runs the scheme, is an absolute star!”
Cllr George Beckett, Leader of Winchester City Council said, "LEADER funding is there for the benefit of those who live and work in our countryside, and who face a whole raft of challenges at any time, but particularly during a time of recession. I would encourage all our rural businesses to think ahead during these difficult financial times, and to apply for LEADER support. The 1 million Euros of support received already by local projects demonstrates the Local Action Group’s proven track record of helping applicants secure funding."
LEADER Fieldfare funds are available until 2013. To find out more about the grants available to small rural businesses, farmers, woodland owners and community projects located in the rural areas of East Hampshire District Council and Winchester City Council please contact Ken Brown or Jo Anderson on 01962 848 588 or www.Fieldfareleader.org.uk .
We are currently fast tracking applications for grants that can be spent by 31 December 2011. To help you apply the next workshop is to be held in Winchester on Sunday 11 September. Booking is essential.