Keen footballers in Tower Hamlets need to get their applications in by Friday for the annual Mayor’s Cup grants.

16 grants of up to £500 to help community football are available to residents and community groups in the borough. The closing date is Friday January 18.  Applicants will be shortlisted between 21 and 25 January following the final selection which will take place during the week ending 1 February. An annual tournament is held in September which helps fund the following year’s grant scheme. According to the council, external sponsors “generously support local football” and they make the final decisions on which worthy applicants receive funding.

Mayor of Tower Hamlets John Biggs said: “The annual Mayor’s Cup offers a great opportunity for anyone to take part in sport. It connects our communities and gives participants opportunities to lead active and healthier lives. I encourage all eligible organisations to apply for a grant and help promote grassroots football in our borough.” Councillor Amina Ali, Cabinet Member for Culture, Arts and Brexit, added: “Last year’s tournament was a wonderful success which featured 71 teams, nine age categories and over 1,000 players”.

Applicants must apply for a grant on the council’s website.