Ross-shire residents groups hope to be richer from their experiences last weekend (Saturday, 5 October).

Eight members of local groups attended a one-day course, funded by Ross and Cromarty Enterprise (RACE) to learn how to develop and write funding bids.

The course, hosted by the MacDonald Road Residents Association in Dingwall, was designed to help groups be more successful when they apply for money to various funders.

Evan Gray, treasurer of the MacDonald Road Residents Association, said the course had given him an insight into what goes into a successful application.

"One of the aims of our group is to refurbish our local playpark so the whole of the Cluny area of Dingwall will benefit," he said.

"This course has given us an idea of what the decision makers look for when they decide which projects they will support.  It doesn't guarantee us success of course, but it helps raise the odds."

The groups received funding through RACE's Community Skills Support Programme, which was set up to provide community groups with financial support towards the costs of training, group exchanges and attending events, as Nicola Ewing from RACE explains:

""The Programme has been designed with groups like these in mind.  It helps community organisations to take part in locally delivered training courses with the aim of equipping them with the skills they need to further develop their group, and we are pleased to have been able to offer our support."

Members from residents groups in Shillinghill, Westford, Firhill, Balintore and Meiklefield joined with the MacDonald Road group for the course held in the Ross County Football Club last Saturday by Helen Houston, Options for Project Support.

If you would like more information about joining or forming a resident group in your area call Carol Elliot, Ross and Cromarty Housing Services, Tenant Participation Officer on 01349 868471.