COMMUNITIES across Hambleton could soon become Vital Villages under a project promoted by the district council.

The Countryside Agency is offering cash to cover the cost of projects which improve the quality of life for people living in rural areas.

A meeting has been arranged at Whorlton Village Hall, near Swainby, on Wed-nesday, where more information will be available.

"These meetings will explain how the scheme works and how it can be linked to the development of a community plan," said council spokeswoman Rhona Pringle.

"We are encouraging groups in and around all our market towns to draw up plans for their area to identify how the quality of life can be improved - and what money will be needed to do just that."

More information on the Vital Villages scheme is available by calling (01609) 767233.