CUSTODIANS of a fund that was set up for the benefit of people in Neilston are inviting applications for financial support.

Neilston Windfarm Legacy (NWL) provides grants to initiatives that have the support of a local community group or voluntary organisation.

To qualify, projects must benefit those who live in the G78 3 postcode area.

They can be environmental, cultural or social initiatives, so long as they fit the NWL’s charitable objectives.

June Jones, NWL secretary, told the Barrhead News: “With the better weather and restrictions being eased, the timing seemed right to invite applications, as people are desperate to start doing things.

“It’s a unique fund. I’m not aware of any other small town or village in Scotland that has anything like this for the local community.

“The grants available are not for a pre-determined amount but applicants should submit detailed costings for their idea on the application form.

“There is no closing date at present. We will see what response we get and then may give notice of a closing date later in the year.”

The NWL, which is run by a voluntary board of trustees, was created following a donation of £2million from the Neilston Development Trust (NDT) in 2017.

Grants are allocated from the remaining money from the sale of the Neilston Community Windfarm that year.

The fund is carefully managed and invested so that the village will be able to benefit for many years to come.

Several community groups have already been supported since the NWL was founded.

Last year, Neilston and District Pipe Band received money for new uniforms and instruments, while the Neilston and Uplawmoor First Responders secured cash for electronic gates and security key-pads.

Meanwhile, the Neilston Window Wanderland project was given funds to buy materials so that local residents could create artistic displays at home and the Neilston War Memorial Association (NWMA) used its grant to buy memorial benches and erect a historical storyboard lectern in Kingston Park.

To find out more about the support available, visit Neilstonlegacy.org.

Applications should be submitted as an attachment in an email to info@neilstonlegacy.org.