A COMMUNITY office in Reeth seems more certain today, after winning more financial backing from the district council.

The Richmondshire authority had already pledged £7,500 towards the redevelopment of the old Barclays Bank building this year.

However, a meeting on Tuesday agreed the council should invest a similar amount next year.

Planning permission has already been granted for three flats on the first floor, with other rooms earmarked for use as a tourist information centre, meeting room, IT suite and a police office.

The district council, the Citizen's Advice Bureau, the Swaledale and Arkengarthdale Business Association and the Swaledale Festival all hope to use the building.

The overall cost of establishing the community office is estimated at about £330,000 and bids for European funding to help bridge the gap will be submitted next month.