Kate ScotterA girl guiding group is hoping a cash boost will help them with their computer skills and to communicate with fellow guides around the world.Kate Scotter

A girl guiding group is hoping a cash boost will help them with their computer skills and to communicate with fellow guides around the world.

The Sixth Norwich Guides have applied for a slice of the �62,500 being offered to community and voluntary groups in Norwich.

For the first time ever, the Evening News has teamed up with Sport Relief, a fundraising initiative of Comic Relief, and the Norfolk Community Foundation to offer the cash.

A wide range of groups can apply for the money, from parent and toddler groups to sports clubs, groups which help older people to those which help the young.

If the Girl Guides are lucky enough to win the �659 they have asked for, they will buy a laptop, a printer and an 18-month internet contract.

Michelle Ward, group leader, said: 'A laptop and internet connection will help them view a lot of the badges on the website, enable them to communicate with guides around the world and will also help them get information for the subjects they are working on.

'Most of the girls do not have internet access or a PC at home so this would help them gain new skills and using the laptop would help not to leave any girls out who do not have access to a computer or the internet.

'We also have a guide who is registered blind. She has to have all the information in large print. The laptop would help her as she can view the information on the screen in a large font.'

The group, based at St Catherine's Church Hall in Aylsham Road, is for girls aged 10 to 14 and during their meetings they do a wide range of activities such as crafts and cooking. They also help to boost young girls' confidence and esteem and attend camps and events.

There is just over one week for community groups in the city to get their applications forms in.

Grants of between �500 and �1,000 are available. Eligible groups must be in the Norwich City Council area, run by local people, have an income of less than �50,000 and work in a deprived or disadvantaged area.

Grants will not be awarded to individuals, statutory organisations or groups which are not constituted. The funding will not be given to help fund trips abroad, mini-buses or to fund building costs. Grants are restricted to one per group.

Have you applied for one of the grants? Contact Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk