Dedicated funding of £100 per community group is being offered to help create a party atmosphere for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations this summer.
The newly-formed Cheshire Community Foundation received a donation from the Duke of Westminster's charitable fund, the Westminster Foundation, which will be distributed to Cheshire East communities on a 'first-come, first-served' basis.
The Diamond Jubilee celebrations will take place across an extended bank holiday weekend between June 2nd and 5th.
Just a couple of days before the royal celebrations, the party atmosphere will hot up as the London Olympic torch relay passes through Crewe, Congleton, Knutsford and Macclesfield.
Councillor Rachel Bailey, Cabinet member with responsibility for safer and stronger communities, said: "This is going to be one of the most memorable weekends of our time and so it's a wonderful opportunity to have a party.
"This is such a momentous occasion and we are delighted to offer community groups the chance to apply for £100 of funding to celebrate in their community.
"We are very grateful to the Duke of Westminster for his donation and we would encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of this opportunity to celebrate and throw a street party or use their local park or playing fields to host an event."
Knutsford Town Council are holding a public meeting on Wednesday, 25th January, to discuss ideas for celebrating the Diamond Jubilee and marking the passage of the Olympic Torch Relay through the town.
Cllr Barbara Coan, Chairman of the Town Council's Events Subcommittee said "We want 2012 to be a great year and we want the community to seize the opportunity that is presented by these important celebrations.
"The purpose of the meeting is twofold, firstly to seek ideas as to how the Council can mark the events and provide for a long term legacy, but also to help those organisations out there who may wish to independently organise events to coordinate activities and maximise public engagement.
"We hope the people will attend the meeting and we look forward to learning more about what is planned for this summer."
The public meeting will commence at 7pm, on Wednesday 25th January, at Brook Street Chapel - everyone is invited to attend.
To apply for the £100 funding, community groups should log on to the Cheshire East website.
The deadline to apply for funding and road closures is Monday April 9th. Alternatively, contact Jane Kavanagh on 01270 685854.Dedicated funding of £100 per community group is being offered to help create a party atmosphere for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations this summer.
