ARTS groups in Renfrewshire are being given the chance to apply for a share of a £500,000 funding package.

The money is being made available as part of Paisley’s bid for UK City of Culture 2021.

The Renfrewshire Culture, Events and Heritage Fund is now open for application from individuals or groups who want to develop their own events or projects.

It is open to anybody staging an event in Renfrewshire, with grants available over the next five years for projects aimed at raising ambition, getting people involved in culture and unlocking the area’s creative potential.

The fund – announced last year as part of Paisley’s UK City of Culture 2021 bid launch – was launched by Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan.

Detailed guidelines and information on how to apply are available at www.paisley2021.co.uk