A sports club which launched the career of Norfolk's Paralympic star Amy Conroy has backed our Red Nose Day Community Cash campaign.

The Green Canaries Wheelchair Basketball Club last year received £1,000 from the initiative, which is once again handing out £50,000 to community groups in Norwich.

Grants of between £500 and £1,000 are up for grabs to groups and clubs working to improve the lives of people across the city.

And with the deadline fast approaching – Red Nose Day on March 15 – now is the time to make your application at www.eveningnews24.co.uk

One of the clubs to do so last year was the Green Canaries, which put the £1,000 grant towards hall hire and servicing costs for its fleet of wheelchairs, following a surge of interest sparked by Miss Conroy representing Great Britain at the London 2012 Paralympics.

David Green, who founded the club in 2007, said the Comic Relief funding had been vital as the club looked to cope with the demand.

'The grant has given us a solid base for 12 months, and a firm grounding that has enabled more people to come along and discover the sport,' he said.

'It's been really important for us to get that funding.

'There was a lot of interest in the club after the Paralympics, especially because of Amy playing.' He added: 'She came to us when she was 14 and has gone on to play all over the world.

'She has been a great role model, and she inspires a lot of the other players.' The club, which has around 25 members, caters for all abilities, from beginners to international, and encourages disabled and able-bodied players to take part together.

The club trains at Recreation Ground Road sport centre, off Earlham Road, and is always looking for new players. Contact David Green on 01603 479833.