A SCHEME set up by the Friends of the Lake District to help rural communities enhance their local landscape pledged more than £100,000 in 2004.

Environmental improve-ment grants were offered to 40 projects across Cumbria. Projects ranged from small, low-key ones like school wildlife gardens, to large ambitious schemes like woodland, historic garden and upland footpath restoration projects.

Friends of the Lake District policy officer Jack Ellerby said: "It's great to be able to support local communities across the Lake District and the whole of Cumbria and enhance the landscape through these grants. Our grant scheme offers communities the opportunity to do something to improve the countryside and encourages pride in caring for the beauty of the landscape."

FLD grants are available to rural community groups throughout the year. Advice on applying and application forms can be obtained by telephoning 01539-720788 or on-line at www.fld.org.uk