Stroud News
Thousands of pounds set aside to fund double celebrations
4:57pm Monday 6th February 2012
FUNDS to help communities celebrate both the journey of the Olympic torch through the Five Valleys and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee have been set aside by Stroud District Council.
Grants totalling £30,000 will be made available to not-for-profit organisations and schools to help them mark the double occasion this summer.
Diamond Jubilee celebrations will be staged over the extended Bank Holiday weekend from June 2 – 5, while the London 2012 Olympic torch will pass through Painswick and Stroud on the afternoon of May 23.
"Amidst the doom and gloom we are bombarded with every day, 2012 plays host to, not just one, but two major once in a lifetime events," said Keith Pearson, cabinet member for regeneration at SDC.
"Whilst we have certain criteria that must be met, we are not being prescriptive about the events or activities – that is up to our communities.
"It must, however, be community-based and mark one or both of the occasions.
"I would encourage schools and not-for-profit organisations to apply and help bring people together to celebrate these momentous occasions."
To apply for a grant of between £100 and £1,000, visit www.stroud.gov.uk before the deadline of March 15.
Grants must be spent by June 5.