A £1.7m funding pot aims to improve rural services, create jobs and boost the local economy in parts of Derbyshire.

Derbyshire Economic Partnership ? backed by Derbyshire County Council ? has secured £1.7m from the European Union through the government's Rural Development Programme for England.

The aim of the funding, known as LEADER funding, is to create more jobs, safeguard existing jobs, attract investment from the private sector to the areas and develop community services.

Specific focus will be given to supporting farm productivity, tourism, heritage promotion and boost woodland economy through forestry improvements.

Businesses and community groups in rural areas of Derbyshire Dales, High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands will be able to bid for the funding from June through the Peak LEADER Rural Grants Scheme.

As well as developing rural services, grants are available to help fund farm productibity, improvement, diversification - as well as other micro and small business support.

Council leader Anne Western said: "We're committed to building a strong economy that creates jobs, grows businesses and, at the same time, recognises the unique environment that makes Derbyshire special.

"Attracting investment and creating jobs is one of our top priorities and we welcome this funding to help boost our rural economy."

Projects must either create jobs and businesses growth or develop community services to be eligible for a grant.

Local Action Group chairman Lewis Rose said: "If you run a small business or community group in Derbyshire Dales, rural High Peak or Staffordshire Moorlands, then your organisation could be eligible for a grant of £2,500 or more.

"We are pleased to have been able to attract this new funding for the area and look forward to working with local communities."

Bids will be considered by the programme's Local Action Group which is made up of representatives from the local authorities, voluntary groups, community groups and businesses within Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

The £1.7m investment is on top of a further £1.37m from the LEADER fund awarded to Bolsover and North East Derbyshire district councils to improve rural areas within their districts.

For details, contact Leader co-ordinator Amanda Brown on 01629 538475 or email amanda.brown2@derbyshire.gov.uk.