COMMUNITY groups and volunteers are being encouraged to bid for a slice of funding as more money is invested across the borough.

Wigan Council opened its Deal for Communities Investment Fund for the fourth time on Monday, with a total of £2 million being up for grabs this year.

It is currently only open to bids for small investments, projects which require less than £2,000.

Volunteers and groups who want to bid for a larger sum of money will be able to do so when the fund fully opens for all projects later in the year.

The funding forms part of The Deal, the informal contract between the council and residents which includes a commitment from both sides to work together to make the borough a better place.

Cllr Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at the council, said: “We are delighted we are able to support our fantastic community groups and volunteers.

“There are many places that are withdrawing funding from communities, but we are bucking the trend and investing more into them.

“Wigan Council is determined to provide support for organisations and groups who want to help improve issues we face in the borough.

"So far the Community Investment Fund has had a massive impact on communities.”

The last time the fund was open for bids 117 were received.

The small investment fund will close on July 11.

For more information visit wigan.gov.uk/thedeal.