COMMUNITY groups in Runcorn and Widnes can once again apply for free specialist support.

Bridge builder Merseylink is offering organisations the chance to work with professionals through their Time Bank.

The project was set up to provide practical help and support to the communities of Halton.

The scheme works by matching successful applicants to a Merseylink partner who gives their time to provide the relevant corporate, financial, commercial or technical expertise needed.

Specialists can provide an initial level of support to enable community projects to get off the ground.

For example, experts could help organisations to produce business plans and funding bids.

Technical support is also available to provide ground surveys, technical drawings, designs and cost estimates.

This information helps to determine if projects are feasible and can also support funding application bids.

Schools, community centres, residents associations and heritage groups have already benefitted.

Runcorn Rowing Club received specialist technical advice for building works to create foundations for a new clubhouse building while experts helped Daresbury District Heritage Group to develop a new website.

Riverside College ran a series of educational workshops for students.

Neil Wilcock, employment and skills coordinator at Merseylink, explained: "The Time Bank scheme allows us to offer expert advice, which otherwise can be very costly.

“Thanks to the support of our project team and generous supply chain we've been able to help some fantastic projects.”

Halton Council leader Cllr Rob Polhill said: "So many organisations have already received valuable support through this fantastic scheme. The expertise across the project team is world class.”

To apply visit merseygateway.co.uk/merseylink/time-bank.

Closing date for applications is Friday, October 21.

For more information call Neil Wilcock on 07773 806270 or e-mail neil.wilcock@merseylink.com.