Community groups in the Bristol area are being urged to apply for their share of a £50,000 grant to boost their energy efficiency.

The Community Chest grant scheme from Western Power Distribution will provide advice and support to enable village halls and community buildings to insulate loft spaces, windows and doors, install energy monitors and low energy lighting and to fit effective heating controls.

The maximum award for each successful group will be £1,000.

Tracy Carr, WPD's Community Liaison Office, said: "Our community buildings are often the backbone of our towns and villages, supporting a wide range of activities for people of all ages.

"We would encourage all non-profit making community groups to apply for one of the grants to support their local community building, save money and reduce carbon emissions."

Last year the Community Chest grant scheme awarded £999.70 to Easton Community Centre to upgrade the building's heating and hot water controls, make the lighting more energy efficient and draught-proof the back door, saving approximately 9.11 tonnes of carbon dioxide

For more information visit the Centre for Sustainable Energy website and click on the WPD Community Chest link to download an application pack and energy survey audit form.