PROJECTS supporting local communities and addressing areas of social need can now apply for a slice of Great Western Railway’s Customer & Community Improvement Fund.

Following the success of last year’s scheme, in which GWR supported 83 projects totalling £1m, the train operator is inviting funding bids for customer and community projects.

As part of its National Rail Contract with the Department for Transport, GWR says it is committed to supporting schools, colleges, councils, community and other not-for-profit organisations by aiding a number of initiatives.

Successful projects in Devon included the installation of the Plymouth People’s Piano in the main concourse at the city’s railway station. Plymouth Youth Music Service (PYMS), the hub lead organisation for Plymouth Music Education Hub, successfully applied for a grant of £3,800 to deliver the equipment.

Now GWR is inviting bids for 2023-24. Schemes should show a link to the railway and address an area of social need or provide a community benefit - they should reach completion by the end of February 2024.

► Applications must be submitted via an online portal on GWR’s website.

► All proposals must be submitted by Thursday, May 25.