SIRIUS minerals has launched a new grant giving programme offering £250,000 to communities along the Yorkshire and Teesside coast.

The firm, which is behind plans to mine the high-quality fertiliser polyhalite from the Woodsmith mine, near Whitby, is offering grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 via its charity foundation to projects that advance training and skills.

This can also be applied to groups helping people currently out of work.

The Sirius Minerals Foundation, an independent charity founded by the firm, will receive 0.5 per cent of any sales once the mine is up and running.

David Archer, chairman of the foundation, said: “We hope to see bids come forward that help to provide more opportunities for local people across the area to gain new skills, as well as complementing existing skills initiatives that are already in place.”

To apply download an application form at www.siriusmineralsfoundation.co.uk. The closing date for applications is 5pm on September 3.