Three community groups near Hitchin are set to benefit after North Herts Council approved £3,750 in funding through its Community Grant scheme.

The funding was agreed following recommendations from the Southern Rural Community Forum meeting held on 27 November 2025 and formally approved by the Council's Executive Member for Governance, Daniel Allen.

Who's receiving funding?

The grants will support a mix of cultural, youth and community facilities projects:

• Kimpton Folk Festival – £1,500
• Funding will help hire The Living Theatre to deliver creative workshops in local schools, alongside a performance at the 2026 festival.
• Knebworth Youth Project – £1,500
• The grant will contribute towards youth worker salaries throughout 2026, supporting young people in the area.
• Pirton Sports & Social Club – £750
• Funding will be used to purchase new chairs and a chair trolley to improve facilities for local users.

The Community Grant scheme forms part of North Herts Council's wider commitment to backing grassroots projects that promote inclusion, wellbeing and community life across the district.

What the council and organisers say

Cllr Daniel Allen said: "We are proud to support these fantastic projects that bring people together and create opportunities for young people and local communities. The Community Grant scheme is a great example of how we can make a real difference at a local level."

Neil Burns, Chair of Kimpton Folk Festival, added: "It is with huge thanks to the North Herts councillors for their support for Kimpton Folk Festival and The Living Theatre's project; a free outdoor theatre production created and performed by children and young people. Come and see it for free on Garden Fields on 4 July 2026 in Kimpton."

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How to apply

Applications for the next round of grants from the Southern Rural Community Forum close on 11 January. Community groups interested in applying can find full eligibility details and criteria on the North Herts Council website.