A MAJOR new grants fund will invest £700,000 over the next two years in community health and wellbeing projects across Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole.

The Inspired by 2012 Health and Wellbeing Legacy Fund is managed by Dorset County Council and aims to build on the success of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Dorset County Council Cabinet member for communities, Colin Jamieson, said: “This is really great news for Dorset.

“Through the fund, we will support projects that improve the physical or mental health of people in Dorset, especially in areas where it will have the biggest impact. This is an amazing opportunity for organisations of all kinds to get some funding to deliver projects that inspire people into making positive lifestyle choices.

“We want to invest the £700,000 in projects that have an impact, inspire people and bring about a lasting change.”

There will be four rounds of funding over the next two years.

The fund’s first application window is open now and closes at 5pm on Friday, August 1.

Details can be found at dorsetforyou.com/legacyfund or call Dave Franks on 01305 224855 or contact Chris Skinner on 01305 228580.