A NATIONAL park is missing out on £5m becasue of the way funding is distributed, it is claimed.

North York Moors National Park chief executive Andy Wilson said the park lost out when, in the 1980s, the Environmentally Sensitive Areas were designated by the then-Government.

In the park's latest news- letter, Mr Wilson said the money would have filtered into the economy and helped protect the environment.

He is calling for the areas to be redefined so the park can get more funding.

He said: "All England's agri-environment schemes are now being revised, and this brings the opportunity to renew the campaign to get a fair share of the funding into this national park.

"Good environmental management does not come cheap, but residents and tourists alike value the beauty of the moors, and farmers need the income to continue the hard work of management."

He said the tourism industry as well as farming stood to benefit from extra funding.

He said: "We shall go on making the point that there is more to tourism than international conference centres and cathedrals. We recognise the strength of the small business, which responds to the needs of this special area."

The authority is seeking the public's views on the park to help shape its future.

He said 30 organisations had so far put forward their views. Among issues raised were pressures facing farmers and the potential effects on the landscape of the area, rising house prices and the implications of the Countryside Rights of Way Act.

Mr Wilson said: "By developing a clear understanding of what is valued within the park, we will be in a better position to maintain them for future generations."