COMMUNITY GROUPS in Eastleigh borough will get the chance to cut their running costs and help the environment at the same time.

The borough council is offering advice on reducing energy, waste and water bills.

And two groups will be able to apply for a £10,000 energy grant that would see sustainable/renewable energy equipment installed into their buildings.

The grant would be provided by the Borough of Eastleigh Energy Project (BEEP) which is designed to encourage groups to install environmentally friendly measures at their premises.

Executive councillor for the environment, Louise Bloom says: "This is a fantastic opportunity for community buildings to become environmentally friendly and for organisations who run them to save money.

"They will become an example to all, and two buildings will also get to showcase extra features such as solar water heating."

Bev Stanley, the council's sustainability policy co-ordinator, says: "The council is adding extra resources to an existing energy advice service provided by our partners at the Environment Centre in Southampton.

"An adviser will visit each building to help the group apply for any grants and other assistance that is available.

"If the building is suitable he will also encourage and help the organisation to apply for the BEEP sustainable/renewable energy grants."

Bev added: "If the building is expected to be in community use for the next ten years and it is of relatively sound construction, community groups have nothing to lose."

To arrange a visit or find out more, community groups should contact Jason Taylor at the Environment Centre by phoning him on 023 8033 6199.