Films and families to benefit from new grants

This year's Northampton Film Festival showcased a film with Cat White and Celia Imrie

A film festival and families affected by substance abuse are to benefit from grants to support local initiatives.

Northampton Film Festival and Family Support Link will be getting the money from the town council.

A residents' association will also be getting a cash windfall.

The council said the grants demonstrated its commitment to the local community.

The Northampton Film Festival, an annual event celebrating local talent, is getting £5,503 to support its next edition.

The money will be used to plan, promote and run the 2025 festival.

The event was established in 2019 after the organisers said they wanted to "shout about the brilliant town of Northampton", and its annual competition has been judged by the likes of actors Julie Hesmondhalgh, Hugh Dennis and Colin Salmon.

The Northampton Film Festival includes special showings of films and a competition

Becky Carrier, from the festival, said: "We're extremely grateful for the repeated support from Northampton Town Council for Northampton Film Festival.

"We plan to showcase more local talent and bring in more visitors to the town than ever before in 2025, combined with a new free film offering to the public in our The Creative Place space on Northampton Market Square."

Becky Carrier, from Northampton Film Festival, said the grant would help it bring in more visitors to the town

Family Support Link is receiving £3,150 to continue services to families affected by substance abuse.

The Northampton office offers support, advice and resources to local residents in need.

The Moulton Leys Residents Association has been granted £2,590 to support infrastructure improvements in the local area.

The association said the project would enhance community spaces, making them safer and more accessible, while promoting a sense of pride among residents.

Jane Birch, from Northampton Town Council, says the grants will benefit the local community

The chair of the town council’s grants committee, Jane Birch, said: "I am delighted that these grants underscore Northampton Town Council’s commitment to fostering initiatives that benefit the local community, from cultural events to critical support services and infrastructure projects."

The council has invited other local organisations to apply for grants.