Commonwealth legacy fund launched

Grants will be awarded to projects which boost participation in sport

A fund dedicated to building a lasting legacy around Scotland from the 2014 Commonwealth Games has been launched in the host city of Glasgow.

The "2014 Communities" scheme will give grants of between �300 and �1,000 in a bid to increase involvement in sport.

Funding will also go to projects which boost volunteering and use sport as a way of uniting communities.

The Big Lottery Fund will invest an initial �500,000 in the programme between 2008 and 2009.

The announcement was made to mark the first anniversary of Glasgow securing the 2014 event.

Speaking at the launch, Sport Minister Stewart Maxwell, said the fund was a "fantastic example" of how the games could have a lasting impact on Scotland.

'Lifetime opportunity'

"From the outset of our bid, legacy has been at the centre of our plans to engage and galvanise people and communities across all of Scotland from all age groups and social groupings," he said.

"Our vision is a legacy which helps people live longer, healthier lives, in strong, supportive communities, with new and better skills development, employment and volunteering opportunities."

Alison Magee, chair of the Big Lottery Fund Scotland Committee, said: "The Big Lottery Fund recognises the real benefits a lasting Commonwealth Games legacy can bring to communities across Scotland and that's why we are launching 2014 Communities today.

"2014 Communities will use Glasgow's Commonwealth Games as a catalyst to bring about greater well-being across Scotland by offering access to legacy funding over the next six years. It highlights our commitment as a funder to enable everyone to benefit from this once in a lifetime opportunity."

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