A PROJECT to plant disease-resistant elm trees, a community wildlife pond, a reconstructed Roman mosaic and a renovated 18th Century brew house are among the latest projects to win grants from the South Downs National Park’s Sustainable Communities Fund.

Those benefiting from a £40,000 pot include Butser Ancient Farm at Chalton, near Petersfield, which has been awarded £4,501 toward the installation of a new mosaic floor recreating an original floor from Sparsholt Roman Villa.

This is believed to be the first time a mosaic has been created using traditional methods in situ since the Romans left Britain. A Butser Ancient Farm spokesman said it would not only enhance visitor experience but also help with developing skills needed to repair genuine Roman mosaic floors.

Gilbert White’s House and Museum at Selborne has been awarded £5,000 to renovate the renowned 18th Century naturalist’s brew house so that it can be opened to the public and used for occasional brewing demonstrations and courses.

In the small grants catgetory, ‘Walk this Way’ women’s walking group has been granted up to £1,000 to develop and print a booklet of their 12 favourite walks in the national park, and Meon Valley Beekeepers are to receive £2,000 toward a trailer they can use to store and transport demonstration equipment to shows and events.

Any partnership, voluntary group or organisation undertaking a non-profit making project that socially, economically, environmentally or culturally benefits national park communities can apply for sustainable communities funding, with grants available for up to 60 per cent of the project cost from £250 to a maximum of £10,000.

To apply, visit southdowns.gov.uk/sustainable-communities-fund.