GREEN-fingered community groups and organisations in Droitwich are being invited to apply for funding to plant native wild flowers in the area.

Groups can apply for up to £4,000 to create an inspiring space in the area through a scheme led by the Big Lottery Fund and Royal Botanic Gardens Kew.

The Grow Wild scheme is working over the next three years to increase native planting in communal areas around the country, looking for groups that can work with volunteers aged 12-25 and older, and supplying them with plants and seeds.

David Tibbatts, programme manager at Grow Wild, said: “We want to hear from voluntary, community and youth groups who would like Grow Wild to help them realise a vision of transforming their local area as part of a network of people who are bringing colour and wildlife to their community’s shared spaces.”

Vinny Ganley, England partnership manager at Grow Wild, added: “A community project can be anything that ignites the interest of the community with activities that show UK native plants at their best. It’s not just about what you plant, but how you plant. We want groups to think creatively with events, art, music and more.”

Applications for next year’s funding through the scheme need to be received by December 2, and will then be put before a panel of experts, before successful groups are notified in February 205 ready to start projects in March.

Peter Ainsworth, chair of the Big Lottery Fund, said: "Grow Wild is all about connecting people with nature, with the places where they live and bringing different generations and communities together in a creative and lasting way.

“Now Grow Wild has reached a really exciting stage to build on their funded networks with the chance for local groups across the UK to apply for funding that could transform their neighbourhood. I can’t wait to see these great ideas bloom into exciting projects that we can all be proud of.”

For more information on the scheme or to apply for funding, visit growwilduk.com/get-funding.