SHIPSTON and Bidford-on-Avon MP Nadhim Zahawi is urging communities to apply for Heritage Lottery Funding (HLF) to mark the centenary of the First World War.

At least £1million a year is available until 2019 as part of the First World War: then and now programme for small, community grants.

Groups can apply for grants of £3,000 to £10,000 so they can explore, conserve and share their First World War heritage and deepen their understanding of the impact of the conflict.

Mr Zahawi said: “I’m delighted that the Heritage Lottery Fund is making money available to local communities.

"For those who want to find out more about its legacy or who wish to mark the Centenary, I would urge them to get in touch with HLF.”

Dame Jenny Abramsky, Chair of HLF, said: “The impact of the First World War was far reaching, touching and shaping every corner of the UK and beyond.

"The Heritage Lottery Fund’s First World War: then and now programme will enable communities to explore the continuing legacy of this war and help young people in particular to broaden their understanding of how it has shaped our modern world.”

For an online application pack, visit hlf.org.uk/ThenAndNow or if a group needs a grant of more than £10,000 for a First World War project, it can apply to HLF through its open programmes.