St Helens’ library service has partnered up with the Heart of Glass to support more voluntary arts groups in the next few years, by offering more grant funding.

Last year both organisations were granted the prestigious National Portfolio Organisation status by Arts Council England, which will provide funding up to 2022.

Groups are able to bid for grants of up to £1,500, with groups encouraged to be brave and creative with their proposals.

The project launched earlier this month with an event at Chester Lane Library where prospective groups could get more information about the support and grant funding available.

Cllr Anthony Burns, St Helens Council’s cabinet member for community based and focused services, said: “St Helens has a growing reputation for arts and culture activity, and we should embrace this in the future development of the borough, building on good practice that has been recognised nationally.

“We’re hoping to nurture even more socially inclusive arts practice in every area of the borough, so if you lead or take part in a voluntary arts group, please get in touch. Whatever your ideas, we want to hear from you; the more ambitious and experimental, the better!”

For more information and how to apply for funding, call 01744 677087.