A NORTH Yorkshire farm, thrown a lifeline by a local authority, is now flourishing thanks to a venture launched last year.

Mainsgill Farm, on the A66 just north of Scotch Corner, was among many struggling to keep its head above water during the foot-and-mouth crisis.

However, the future is looking brighter for Maria and Andrew Henshaw since they opened their own farm shop nine months ago.

Today they employ extra staff to cope with demand, creating two full-time and four part-time jobs.

"We had only been at the farm for six years and, like many others in the area, were struggling to make a living," said Mrs Henshaw.

"We realised we would have to diversify in order to survive and the farm shop had the added advantage of helping other local producers."

Richmondshire District Council offers farms and businesses financial support under both the Industrial Aid Scheme - available for business start-ups and expansion projects in the service or manufacturing sector - and the Rural Aid Scheme, which includes agricultural diversifications. Between April 2000, and March last year, 15 projects have won the authority's backing, creating the equivalent of 30 full-time jobs.

More information is available by telephoning (01748) 829100, ext 420.