COMMUNITY groups in Newport are being urged to apply for more than £3 million in Euro-cash, which is still available to be invested in projects across the city.

Newport has already received a £7 million investment to support regeneration schemes in the city.

And the committee set up to distribute Objective Two cash around Newport says there is still millions of pounds available for businesses and groups in the city.

It is urging groups to bid for the latest wave of funding before the cash stops in 2006.

More than 20 Objective Two projects have been given funding in Newport since the Structural Fund started in 2002.

The schemes include the high profile renovation of the Newport Market and the ongoing success of the Wastesavers programme.

But organisers are keen to stress the impact the cash can have on more localised projects such as the Bettws in Bloom sensory garden and the council's small grants scheme which helps community groups in disadvantaged wards.

Objective Two money is set aside to assist areas hit by the decline of heavy industry. It is intended to help develop small and medium businesses which in turn will regenerate communities.

A spokeswoman for the Newport European Partnership said: "Following the recent decision to bring forward the end of the current Structural Fund programme by six months and in view of the healthy level of spending achieved by the partnership to date, the European unit would like to take this opportunity to invite and encourage further applications so that the remaining Objective Two funds will be fully utilised to the last benefit of Newport."

The unit is asking for completed applications to be submitted by June 9 so that potential projects can be considered. For more information contact the unit on 01633 232281.