REMEMBER the Deane Dragons that were scattered around the Taunton and Wellington area last summer?

Well, thanks to them a fund of £40,000 has been built up to support community projects in the district – and your organisation could qualify for some of the cash.

Somerset Community Foundation is overseeing the handout of grants from the Taunton Deane Mayor’s Fund to support community projects that will have a lasting legacy for local people.

Over £40,000 was raised for the Mayor’s Fund through the Deane Dragons initiative, curry nights and other events led by Mayor Cllr Dave Durdan.

A total of 30 £500 grants - one for each of the dragons - will be awarded to communities throughout the Deane, and there are also a small number of grants between £1,500 and £2,500 available for larger legacy projects.

And £20,000 has been used to create a long-term legacy fund, attracting an additional £10,000 of Government match-funding – the funds have been invested by Somerset Community Foundation to provide an on-going source of income for future grants to community groups.

The foundation is inviting applications that will have a lasting benefit for one or more communities in Taunton Deane, particularly new equipment or enhancing community buildings and facilities.

Examples of projects that may considered include new play park equipment, defibrillators, village hall enhancements, tree planting, allotments and community gardens.

The deadline for applications is Monday, March 9 - for further details contact programmes manager Jocelyn Blacker on 01749-344949 or visit www.somersetcf.org.uk