The launch of a £1.5 million fund to "boost communities" across the city has been announced by Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

The council explained that the Pride in Place Impact Fund, funded by the UK Government, will see £1.5 million invested in "improvements that make a visible difference to local neighbourhoods".

The fund comes after ministers announced last year that Stoke-on-Trent would be among the 95 areas to receive the cash.

Stoke-on-Trent residents, community groups, businesses and local organisations are being invited to nominate projects they believe should receive a share of the money before midnight 1 March.

Improvements could include fixing up community buildings, upgrading parks and playgrounds, improving high streets, or enhancing public spaces with lighting, benches or public art.

Decisions on which projects to fund will be made by a panel including community representatives, MPs and councillors.

Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said the fund was about "confidence, connection and community".

She said: "This funding will deliver rapid, visible improvements that strengthen local pride, enhance neighbourhoods, and lay the foundations for future investment across the city.

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"The money will help shape our ambition of building a city for everyone. It will be invested directly in the spaces that matter most to residents and community organisations.

"We want to celebrate what makes Stoke-on-Trent unique, empower local people and ensure the city continues to be a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging and pride."

The fund will run until March 2027, with projects chosen and delivered in phases.

The Impact Fund is available for projects across the city which include physical improvements that make a lasting difference. Routine maintenance and running costs will not be eligible.

It comes ahead of a bigger Pride in Place cash injection which will see £40 million of government money spent on projects in two neighbourhoods that ministers have identified as in need of targeted investment: Meir North, and Bentilee and Ubberley.

To learn more about the fund and how to nominate a project visit the Stoke-on-Trent City Council website here.

Nominations should be submitted by midnight 1 March.