ORGANISERS of rural transport projects have been urged to stake their claim for a share of a £10,000 fund.

The Hambleton and Richmondshire Rural Transport Partnership - set up 18 months ago, with the backing of district councillors - wants local groups to apply for cash from its Get Up and Go fund.

Money has been awarded during the past year to a variety of community schemes.

Grants have included £616 to Easingwold Town Council towards the cost of a public transport needs survey in the area and £140 to Bedale Volunteer Bureau's social car scheme for mobile phones for their drivers.

Other awards have included £1,000 given to Mental Health Support and £253 to Newton-on-Ouse parish council to fund a free monthly bus to York for pensioners.

For further details about the scheme, contact Kevin Holt at Community House, South Parade, Northallerton, on (01609) 761206.