TIME is running out for Dorset charities wanting to a get a cash boost for projects.

The Gannett Foundation grant awards are now open for this year’s applications.

The awards are part of the charitable arm of the US company Gannett that owns the Dorset Echo’s publisher Newsquest.

The Echo has received several entries and charities are urged to get their applications in before the deadline of this Friday, September 21, at 5pm.

Previous winners have included Weymouth Rowing Club, which got a grant to build new floating pontoons and the MV Freedom, which received help towards buying new communications equipment.

For an application form email newsdesk@ dorsetecho.co.uk All applications have to be made electronically and all entrants have to do is save the electronic form, modify it with their submission and then email it back.

Please note applications will not be considered if they are from non-registered charities, intended to fund salaries or general running costs, general appeals as opposed to specific projects, political or regional organisations or state or privately owned schools, except special needs schools, or hospitals other than hospices. Previous applicants who have been given a grant in the last two years will also not be considered during this round of funding.