CUMBRIAN landscape charity Friends of the Lake District and Natural England say their Discover Cumbria grant scheme will this year help the county's flood recovery.

The grants enable organisations, schools or groups to run innovative events or activities this summer for people and communities to get outside, discover and enjoy something new about the natural environment.

The organisations say this year activities in flood hit areas would be particularly welcome.

Events can run anytime during 2016 and grants of up to £500 will be available.

Jan Darrall, of Friends of the Lake District said: “Our grant was new last year and allowed lots of exciting events to take place. This year we would like it to help flood hit areas and at the same, encourage people to discover the countryside.

“We are particularly interested in events in new events and those focusing on landscape, flora and fauna, land management, or those which celebrate local events or our fantastic cultural heritage.

“Cumbria is rich in natural and cultural heritage and we want to encourage people to discover and enjoy it and help the county recover”.

Simon Humphries, Natural England’s Cumbria area manager said: “This is a great opportunity for us to support both the local economy and the countryside and help local groups to create a brand new series of innovative events and activities, bringing a lasting benefit to the less well-known highlights of Cumbria.”

•Applications can be made to Friends of the Lake District, and information on the new grant scheme can be found at www.friendsofthelakedistrict.org.uk/how-to-apply-for-a-grant

•Grants will cover up to 75% of costs, up to a maximum of £500.

•Events must be new or have a funding gap and won’t be funded retrospectively.

•Grant applications can be made any time before October 31.

For more information contact jan-darrall@fld.org.uk