“The fund will unlock and enable the artistic spirit of Dorset to participate fully in this ground-breaking event.”

The words of Angus Campbell, Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, to mark the Let’s Create Jubilee Fund.

Applications are now open for grants of between £750 and £10,000 to help community and voluntary organisations celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June.

Dorset Community Foundation, in partnership with Arts Council England, is one of a network of community foundations supporting the £5 million programme.

The aim is to develop creative and cultural activities as part of the summer celebration.

The programme is made possible with funding from the National Lottery, whose players raise £30 million for good causes every week.

The fund’s distribution will be managed by UK Community Foundations on behalf of its 44 community foundation members across England.

Grant applicants are encouraged to partner with established artists, creatives and cultural organisations to develop their activities.

It’s hoped the Jubilee celebrations will give people across Dorset the chance to experience the best of the country’s culture while also celebrating an important milestone in the nation’s history.

Mr Campbell, pictured at the fund’s launch with Dorset Community Foundation Trustee Deb Appleby, said: “This splendid Jubilee Fund is a tremendous initiative for us all.

“Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, marking, as it does, her 70 years of dedicated service to our country, the Commonwealth, and indeed, the world, is the perfect opportunity to further stimulate and motivate the many creative talents present in our county.

“The fund will unlock and enable the artistic spirit of Dorset to participate fully in this ground-breaking event and should create a legacy, within the community, to be built on into the future.

“I congratulate the Dorset Community Foundation, that has done so much for us in so many ways, not least throughout the recent pandemic, for leading on this fantastic initiative for the benefit of us all.”

Dorset High Sheriff Michael Dooley, pictured left, said the fund will help the county’s creative talent express itself as part of the celebrations.

He added: “I am delighted to support this excellent opportunity for the people of Dorset to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee for 70 years of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign.

“I would strongly encourage any group that is planning an event to acknowledge this wonderful anniversary to consider applying.

“Dorset is one of the corners of England that we all love, and I know with such a rich pool of artistic talent out there, we can really showcase this wonderful county to all.

“During my shrieval year I have been so pleased to work with the exceptional team at Dorset Community Foundation.

“I am thrilled it has been chosen as a partner by Arts Council England.”

The fund is open for applications until February 28.

Applicants will be informed of the decision on their grant by April 1.

Grant Robson, Dorset Community Foundation Director, pictured right, said: “We’re very proud to partner with Arts Council England to deliver the Let’s Create Jubilee Fund.

“We look forward to working with local groups and artists who will create imaginative and innovative celebrations to mark this historic occasion, and strengthen cultural involvement and opportunities in their communities.”

Arts Council England Chief Executive Darren Henley added: “We’re giving people across the country the chance to come together to experience the joy of culture and creativity in celebration of this historic milestone.

“With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee taking place alongside the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Festival and the Unboxed festival of UK creativity, this year is set to be a magnificent celebration of our nation’s artistic achievements.”

More details of eligibility and how to apply can be found by clicking here.