COMMUNITY groups across the county are to benefit from the latest round of grants announced by the National Lottery's Awards For All scheme.

To qualify, causes must extend access or participation in the community, or improve skills, creativity or quality of life.

Among those judged to be meeting these requirements is the Harrogate Riding For The Disabled Association, which receives more than £4,000 to spend on a new surface for riding at the club.

The town's community transport initiative also receives a similar amount to cover the cost of a Duet tandem bicycle, which will allow wheelchair users to join cyclists on tours of the area this summer, while the Friends of Summerbridge Primary School will receive a £4,000 grant to help establish a gardening club.

Youngsters in Ryedale benefit from a £2,500 grant to the Pickering Badminton Club, which is planning to develop its junior section.

A further £500 has been awarded to the Scarborough Childminders Group, which is planning to have a float in the seaside resort's annual carnival.

Another £4,000 has been granted to cover the cost of roof repairs at Scarborough's Eastfield Community Association centre.

The Disability Advice Association plans to launch in York, using a grant of £4,800 to buy office equipment.

The city's Rowntree Musical Theatre also receives £4,000 to help cover the costs of a production planned for June.