MERTHYR Tydfil community groups – and especially those involved in Welsh language and culture projects – are being urged to apply for funding of up to £5,000 from a local grants scheme. Applications are open from Wednesday 2 February and will close on Wednesday 16 February.

The Ffos-y-fran Community Benefit Fund programme was established by the County Borough Council in collaboration with local mining company Merthyr (South Wales) Limited.

It donates £1 for every ton of coal sold from the Ffos-y-fran land reclamation scheme, and since the site opened in 2007, more than £6m has been awarded to a wide range of groups and causes.

The Council’s Welsh Language Champion Cllr Geraint Thomas said:

“While we welcome applications from all local community groups running environmental, educational or leisure projects, we would particularly welcome them from those involved with Welsh language and culture.

“Interest in Welsh is growing year on year in Merthyr Tydfil, and the Council wants to encourage that growth by supporting initiatives that embrace the language and its roots,” he added.

The aims of the Ffos-y-fran Funding programme are to help create a ‘strong, sustainable and diverse economy’, supporting people in developing new skills, while encouraging healthy lifestyles and physical activity.

Organisations and clubs supported in the last round of awards in 2021 included: Aberfan Canoe Club, Baili Gals AFC, Georgetown Boys & Girls Club, Gurnos Football Club, Heolgerrig Red Lion Community Football Club, Merthyr Saints FC, Merthyr Schools Rugby, Merthyr Triathlon Club and Merthyr Tydfil Swimming Club.

Grants are for revenue/capital costs and match funding is a requirement for the Intermediate Fund, either through cash or in-kind contributions.