CHARITIES across Wirral have just four weeks to stake a claim for funding from the Wirral Globe.

The money has been made available by Gannett Co Inc, the American publishers that own our parent company, Newsquest Mediagroup.

Grants of between £5,000 and £10,000 are on offer.

The foundation supports those registered charities with projects which take a creative approach to fundamental issues such as neighbourhood improvements, local problem-solving, economic development, youth enterprise, assistance to disadvantaged or disabled people, care of the elderly, environmental conservation, and educational or cultural enrichment.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday, October 16.

Earlier this year, Liscard-based Stick'n'Step received £5,018 from the foundation, which was used to pay for vital equipment used to provide conductive education for people with Parkinson’s Disease.

Last year The Friends of Hoylake and Meols In Bloom community group received £6,800, which was used to help its team of dedicated volunteers create an activity and adventure trail at Queen’s Park in Hoylake.

In 2012, two Wirral charities received a share of more than £15,000. Age UK Wirral received £10,000 to furnish its new Meadowcroft Community Hub in Bromborough.

The Barnstondale Centre used its grant of £5250 to create a pathway, giving more than 800 disabled users better access to the surrounding woodland.

In 2011, West Kirby Disabled Swimming Club, which received £630 to help update its equipment.

In 2009, Wirral Autistic Society was awarded £25,600 for its "Home From Home Appeal".

The cash was used to pay for the furniture needed for the new six-bed respite centre at the society’s headquarters in Raby Hall, Raby Mere. The next round of funding will be announced early this year.

The Gannett Grant form and guidelines can be downloaded from www.wirralglobe.co.uk/gannett_grants/

All completed forms should be emailed to craig.manning@nqnw.co.uk

If you do not have access to email, postal applications can be sent to Gannett Grants, Wirral Globe, Haymarket Court, Hinson Street, Birkenhead CH41 5BX.