CORNISH community groups can share in a new £2m fund launched by Comic Relief.

Comic Relief and UK Community Foundations want the new fund to support small community-led organisations.

For groups in Cornwall applications are being managed by Cornwall Community Foundation.

Comic Relief says grassroots community organisations have been hit particularly hard over the last few years due to the economic climate, which has made it harder to secure funding.

The Core Strength – Local Communities initiative provides funding for core running costs for small locally-led community organisations.

Grants of between £1,000 to £5,000 for up to 12 months are available to organisations with an annual income of up to £100,000.

Tamas Haydu, of the Cornwall Community Foundation, said: ‘We’re delighted to have a strong partnership with Comic Relief to help small and local charities concentrate on what they do best – helping those in need.

‘This national initiative is great for small community organisations in Cornwall because it can contribute to core running costs and we know that is one of the key challenges they face.’

Further details on eligibility and how to apply are available at www.cornwallfoundation.com or by calling 01566 779333.

The deadline for applications is Monday, October 16.