A new community fund which will award grants of between £200 and £2,000 has been launched in celebration of Thamesmead’s 50th anniversary this year.

The Thamsemead 50th Fund, launched by housing association Peabody, aims to support individuals in the community, groups and businesses within the area throughout 2018.

It is said to have been made possible by the location filming in Thamesmead, which in the past has been used in scenes for A Clockwork Orange and Beautiful Thing as well as a location for E4 television drama Misfits.

Peabody’s head of culture Adriana Marques said: “We are looking for inspiring community projects from street parties and picnics, to school trips, community gardens and local artworks and films to celebrate all things Thamesmead.

“The 50th anniversary is such an important year for our local heritage, that we want to provide opportunities for the community to celebrate.”

Filming fees in Thamesmead have been ring-fenced since last September to ensure filming activity is ‘directly benefitting’ the community, which is now part of the new fund.

Erith and Thamesmead MP Teresa Pearce said: “Thamesmead is bursting with talent and I am very pleased to see that this fund will help individuals, community groups and local businesses to bring their ideas to life.

“This year is the 50th anniversary of Thamesmead where we will celebrate all that is best about the town and its residents.”

Residents can visit an open day at the Thamesmead Information Hub to learn more:

Date: Saturday, February 17

Time: 11am – 4pm

216 Yarnton Way, Thamesmead, DA18 4AX

To apply for the Thamesmead 50th Fund download an application form at www.thamesmeadnow.org.uk/50th-fund/ and send it to Thamesmead50thfund@peabody.org.uk