FORMER Tory Leader William Hague has launched a book designed to help families and carers of people with learning disabilities.

The Richmondshire MP launched The Way Ahead when he visited the Mencap Centre in Northallerton at the weekend as president of the local branch of the society.

The book is designed to be used as a signpost to services available from both statutory and voluntary agencies and is also a useful reference to other services such as specialist holidays, benefits and the like.

The book was produced with financial support from a number of organisations including Northallerton Town Council, Midland Bank, Friends of the Dales School, Cleveland Steel and Tubes, E Wood Ltd, Leathleys Quality fare, Hambleton District Council, Mowbray School, Rotary Club, RAF Leeming, the Lions and Northallerton Variety Company