PRIME Minister Theresa May has backed a £3m project to support creative and cultural organisations in the North.

It means projects which support local communities can apply for up to £150,000 worth of government funding.

This includes schemes which use theatre to improve child literacy and art workshops for disabled people or the elderly.

The Prime Minister said: “Our creative industries are at the heart of what makes Britain great, from the big screen to the local gallery.

“In publishing, in music, in advertising and more, every day our creative industries fly the flag for Britain on the global stage.

“I’m delighted to announce a fund that will provide a new source of finance for creative and cultural organisations across the Northern Powerhouse.

“Offering a mix of grants and loans, the social investment fund will be open to non-profit, community-based organisations that deliver a positive social impact.”