COMMUNITY groups across North Yorkshire are being urged to stake their claim for a share of National Lottery cash after a shake-up of the grants system.

Changes to the procedure for applying for funding have been made, and officials hope they have made the process more straightforward.

The alterations were made as the former National Lotteries Charities Board switched its name to the Community Fund.

Chairman Lady Diana Brittan, who lives at Spennithorne, near Leyburn, said: "Our new name sums up what we are here to do - give money to communities - and we want to interpret communities in the widest possible way.

"Just changing a name doesn't solve problems. It doesn't solve the problem of helping communities that need it most, but who find it most difficult to apply for our money.

"With them in mind, we have simplified our application process and introduced two new grant programmes. We want to reach out to more communities, but in particular those who are isolated or vulnerable, or for whom opportunities are poor."

Grants are now available for projects costing up to £60,000. Application packs are available by calling (0845) 7919191.