THE company behind the wind farm off Walney's coast has reminded residents that the closing date for their community grant worth hundreds of thousands of pounds is looming ever closer following recent interest.

Ørsted, who run the Walney Extension, which is the world’s largest operational offshore wind farm has reminded community groups and organisations that the deadline to apply for their yearly £600,000 community fund is July 2019.

In total the organisation has pledged to donate £15 million to support local support projects and organisations by donating £600,000 each year, which also includes £100,000 ring-fenced for a 'Skills Fund' to promote education, support local students and increase uptake of STEM subjects for young people.

A spokesman for Ørsted, said: “Barrow is an important part of our operations in the UK and we are certainly committed to making a positive and lasting impact on the community.

"To date, Ørsted has funded over 40 inspirational projects in the region, totalling almost £1,000,000 in grants. We have also extended our partnership with the RNLI to fund running costs of lifeboats at seven RNLI lifeboat stations across the UK – including the station at Barrow.”

One such group hoping to secure funds includes a Walney community group, backed by Barrow's MP John Woodcock hoping to bring back the former glory of Biggar Bank beach.

Mr Woodcock said: “The western coastline of Walney, with its mountain views, and safe bathing is one of our area’s finest natural features, but over time the facilities that supported places like Biggar Bank have disappeared. The need to bring back toilets must come at the top of the list, but there is so much we can do to make the shore a magnet for visitors once again."

Applications to the Community Fund are made using an online system via the GrantScape website www.grantscape.org.uk. The next closing date for applications is in July 2019.