JUST two days remain for charities to put themselves forward for a cash boost.

On Friday the deadline passes for applications for the Gannett Foundation grant.

The Gannett Foundation, the charitable arm of the Oxford Mail’s parent company, is giving away up to £10,000 to charities across Oxfordshire.

One of the charities looking for funding is Oxford and District Sports and Recreation Association for the Disabled (OXSRAD), which is keen to replace its ageing equipment.

Secretary Brian Buchan said: “It would be really quite significant to be successful.

“The centre is 23 years old now and it is in serious need of refurbishment. The money would allow us to rebuild our membership.

“The important point is the integration aspect.

“We have equipment for able-bodied people and disabled people here.

“It really helps dispel the stigma associated with disability.”

OXSRAD is looking for more than £9,500 to purchase gym equipment including two treadmills and one recumbent bike.

Charities and groups can apply for Gannett grants of between £5,000 and £10,000.

Other applications this year include a bid for £10,000 from Carterton Town Council to refurbish the town’s pavilion on Monahan Way to provide family members with a private space to wait when repatriations are held.

The Oxford branch of the National Organisation of the Widowed is looking for cash to purchase a computer and printer to help it with its activities.

Last year’s winners were Blackbird Leys Adventure Playground, which was given £6,500, Oxford Food Bank, which was awarded £10,000, and Carterton’s memorial bell appeal, which received £9,000.

Simon O’Neill, editor of the Oxford Mail, said: “Last year’s winners demonstrated just what a great boost this grant can be in these difficult times.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the wide range of causes which will be in the running for this year’s grant.”

Religious or political groups, schools, hospitals, and general appeals are not eligible, nor are applications for salaries or running costs.

All applications, including those featured here, will go through a strict judging process. l Applications must be in by 5pm on Friday.

For further details and to apply, visit oxfordmail.co.uk/ news/community/gannettfoundation