PROJECTS taking place in North Yorkshire are being encouraged to apply for funding.

The North Yorkshire Small Projects Fund is a partnership between Yorkshire Forward, North Yorkshire County Council, district councils and the national parks.

The fund has now widened its brief to include new areas excluded in the past.

Rural areas around Selby and across the Hambleton district are now eligible with only the centres of York, Scarborough and Harrogate remaining outside the project's boundaries.

Grants can be as much as £1,000 where the overall cost of a project does not exceed £4,000.

Last year, more than £27,000 was handed out to help with the refurbishment of village halls, a promotional video, a youth shelter and the production of tourism leaflets.

County councillor John Dennis said: "This fund was established over ten years ago and during that time has supported local initiatives among community groups and organisations in rural parts of the county.

"Projects such as improvements to facilities and services, provision of information and advice, recreation, child care and tourism initiatives have all benefited from the fund.

"Without it, many small projects simply would not get off the ground."

More information is available by telephoning the county council on (01609) 532294 or (01609) 532681, or the Yorkshire Rural Community Council on (01904) 645271.