The Prince's Countryside Fund announces £700,000 new funding available to secure a brighter future for the British countryside

At the same time, village shops, pubs and services continue to close, and hard pressed farms face ruin. Much more support is needed to encourage the next generation back into farming and other rural careers.

In response, to support inspiring rural initiatives, The Prince’s Countryside Fund has announced a valuable lifeline for rural communities with £700,000 of grant funding.

Organisations and charities helping to protect and sustain Britain’s rural communities can apply for much needed funding of up to £50,000 from The Prince’s Countryside Fund, which opens online for grant applications on Thursday 17th March 2016.

Claire Saunders, Director of The Prince’s Countryside Fund, said; “The countryside has faced some real hardship in recent months and our grants are a valuable lifeline to redress the balance. We also have additional funds to help initiatives in the areas affected by the recent and severe flooding. We are seeking applications from organisations that are working on projects focused on recovery and resilience in rural areas, particularly in the North of England, Yorkshire and Scotland.

“Rural communities are the backbone of the countryside, and farming is of vital importance to a thriving rural economy. The Fund is here to support and assist communities in times of hardship and help those who live and work in the countryside face a brighter future.”

The Prince’s Countryside Fund opens for grant applications on Monday until 5pm on Wednesday 13th April. Any applications received after this time will not be considered.

To apply for funding from The Prince’s Countryside Fund please complete the online application form at: www.princescountrysidefund.org.uk.