Over 60 local people visited Red Lodge Millennium Centre for the first Funding Fair event in Forest Heath.

The fair was organised by Forest Heath District Council in partnership with The Voluntary Network and West Suffolk Consortium for Voluntary Organisations.

The event was free and open to everyone living in West Suffolk interested in developing a community project. Alongside a great line-up of big names and new funders providing funding advice and information throughout the afternoon, a series of workshops gave an insight into some of the skills required to attract volunteers and plan and run a successful community project.

Feedback from both exhibitors and visitors was very positive, and it is hoped this will inspire local groups to share their ideas and to work together to develop new community projects

Visiting the Funding Fair, Chairman of the council, Councillor Bill Bishop said: “Any event or opportunity which empowers local people to build on and improve projects by providing them with new skills and knowledge can only have a positive impact our local community as a whole. We now have an active Community Development team at Forest Heath, with a strong team of specialist officers providing support to local people. “

Based on the success of the event Forest Heath District Council have pledged to run the event next year, and hope it grow in popularity. Anyone interested in developing a project to benefit their community can contact Forest Heath for advice by emailing community@forest-heath.gov.uk or contacting 01638 719200.