The LEADER programme is aimed at small scale, community driven and innovative projects that support both the local economy and Orkney communities.

The drop-in session will be an opportunity for interested parties to discuss project ideas and get advice from the LEADER team. The session takes place at Heilsa Fjord, Sanday, on Tuesday, 9 February from 12:30 to 14:30.

Projects eligible to apply will include those that show support for:

Currently, the programme welcomes expression of interest forms and is expected to open for full applications later in spring 2016.

Amy Esslemont, the council’s development officer for LEADER, said: “The island of Sanday has already seen how beneficial LEADER funding can be through the development of the Heritage Centre in Lady Village.

“The Sanday Development Trust successfully utilised LEADER funding during the 2007-2013 programme and now have a fantastic facility for locals and visitors to enjoy.

“There is a great video on the Sanday Heritage Centre that the Council created and can be viewed on the Orkney LEADER Facebook page where you can also view regular updates.

“We want to offer Sanday residents a clear understanding of what LEADER is and this drop-in session will be a perfect opportunity for this.”