On Tuesday 10th November, Rhun ap Iorwerth, AM for Ynys Môn, attended a Senedd event hosted by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), to find out how people from their constituency can secure new National Lottery money to help them mark the Centenary of the First World War.

At the Senedd event, Rhun had the chance to meet with members of Menai Bridge Explorer Scouts, who have received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for a project to explore the role of Scouting around World War I.

HLF has now made an additional £4million available in 2015/16 for communities looking to explore, conserve and share local heritage of the First World War. Grants are available between £3,000 to £10,000.

Rhun ap Iorwerth said: “It was interesting to learn of the research the Menai Bridge Explorer Scouts have done, and I was pleased that they were able to come to the Senedd to share the information with us. It’s important that we remember the impact of this war one hundred years on. There is still time to apply for National Lottery money and I would urge anyone in Anglesey with an idea for their own project to get in touch with HLF.”

Sir Peter Luff, Chair of the HLF, said: “The demand for National Lottery funding for First World War projects has been phenomenal, so much so we’ve decided to make extra money available. This will mean everyone, in particular more young people, can explore the momentous events of a war that shaped our nation, Europe and the world. Next year marks the centenary of the Battle of Somme and if groups want support for projects in 2016, they need to start thinking about applying now.”

The event showcased just a handful of 79 First World War Centenary projects taking place across Wales, thanks to more than £5million of investment from HLF.

More information on how to apply for HLF funding is available at www.hlf.org.uk