CHARITIES around Swindon are being reminded there is still time to bid for grants of up to £50,000 through the Advertiser.

The Gannett Foundation Fund, the charitable arm of the Advertiser's parent company Gannett, is once again looking for charities which would benefit from extra funding.

The foundation provides grants twice a year to good causes and this year's deadline of March 28 is fast approaching.

The foundation has previously helped a variety of individuals and organisations.

In 2006, the Coate Water Sailing Club received £5,500 which allowed the club to buy new dinghies, life jackets and helmets.

According to members they would have been unable to afford the boats otherwise.

The Advertiser's editor, Dave King, said: "It is a hard task trying to choose the deserving causes. The money could easily be spent 10 times over.

"However, in every case the money is going to a worthwhile cause, money which is making a difference to the community we live in and we are delighted to be able to make a positive contribution to the community in which we serve."

The Friends of Crowdys Hill School, a charity which fundraises for the school, learnt that it would be receiving a grant in November 2007.

It received £5,500 which helped with the cost of improving the play and seating area.

It included benches, shelter and board games for the pupils to play.

The school's deputy head Chris Gower said: "Without the support from the grant we couldn't have provided the kids with what they have now and we're extremely grateful.

"Without these sorts of grants, charities and small groups wouldn't be able to function and it's great that the community has this."

Grants will only be given to registered charities and funding will not go towards salaries or general running costs.

The grants are not for public or private schools, except those catering for children with disabilities or complex needs.

Grants will also not be given to organisations which are asking for money to fund their publicity.

Application forms and more information on the criteria for the awards are available from the Swindon Advertiser in Victoria Road, or by visiting the website which can be found at www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/gannettgrants.

You can also e-mail editor@newswilts.co.uk.