TWO festival committees are among the first groups to get cash as part of a county council scheme to help people from different backgrounds get along.

The Bringing People Together fund was launched last month following a countywide survey in 2008 which showed that 25.9% thought people from different backgrounds in their area did not get on.

This figure is up from 22% two years previously.

Reasons included age, religion, nationality and the gap between rich and poor.

The fund was launched to help groups which have ideas on how to fix the problem.

Among the first grants to be made is £2,000 towards Alfreton's Party in the Park.

The council said it provided the cash because the event last year attracted 10,000 visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

Friends of Kirk Hallam Lake and Meadows received £950 for their Lakeside Festival 2010 on July 4.

The authority said this would bring the community together with activities such as a climbing wall, stalls and pond-dipping.

Councillor Carol Hart, cabinet member for communities, said it was important more groups applied for cash as the authority was "keen to promote understanding between different groups in society".

One-off grants ranging from £100 to £2,000 are available through the scheme, until September, to community, faith and voluntary groups.

To apply for a grant, a group must be based in and/or provide services in the Derbyshire area.

Applications must be submitted by July 16 and all suggested projects must take place before September 30. Application forms are available by e-mailing policy@derby shire.gov.uk or call Derbyshire on 08456 058058.