Salford’s Ceremonial Mayor is offering grants of up to £500 to help residents make a difference.

Applications are now open for funding from The Ceremonial Mayor’s community chest which aims to help local community groups or people to help them make a difference in their community or to achieve a specific goal.

It’s one of four local good causes which Councillor Ronnie Wilson is supporting during his year of office with a programme of fundraising events.

Councillor Wilson said: “Sometimes small amounts of money can make a huge difference in the community if a group is trying to improve their neighbourhood.

“The chest also provides funding to help individuals achieve their goal – it might help pay for equipment they need or training or even fund travel costs. We are open to all ideas.”

Councillor Wilson has organised a charity quiz night on Thursday 31 January at Buile Hill Park Hall in Buile Hill Park, Eccles with tickets just £10 per team (maximum six members) and a Pamper and Dine evening on Tuesday 12 February at the Glass House restaurant, Worsley college. Tickets are £17.50 for a two course meal with a manicure or hand and arm massage included.

There’s a Dance Night with Cadishead Band at 7.30pm on Friday 15 March at Eccles Town Hall and tickets are just £5 to book now or pay on the door.

And the Ceremonial Mayor’s annual ball takes place on Saturday 2 March at Buile Hill Park Hall with a masquerade theme. Tickets are £35 per person.

Tickets for all events are available from [email protected] or call the Ceremonial Mayor’s office on 0161 793 2411 or 793 3618.

To apply for a grant from the community chest please see www.salford.gov.uk/mayorscharity. The deadline for applications is Friday 26 April and grants will be made until all the funds have been used up.