GREEN ideas that will bring a lasting benefit to a national park could be in line for financial help to get started.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) aims to support new business ideas, community schemes and environmental projects that support the national park and its communities.

In nine years more than £1.5 million has been awarded to 147 projects of different sizes through the SDF.

Adrian Shepherd, the authority’s farming and rural economy manager, said: "We have £171,000 of grants available this year and we hope people will take advantage of them. The fund is a fantastic way to develop green ideas and make them a reality in the national park."

Isobel Hall, the SDF manager said: "The first round of grants is now underway with a deadline of June 10 and we hope it will attract a lot of applications.

"It is also worth noting that applications from outside the national park can be considered as long as they show a clear benefit to the area."

Any organisations, individuals or businesses who want more information or an application form can contact Ms Hall on 01524-251002 or email isobel.hall@ydmt.org.

Details and application forms are also available on www.yorkshiredales.org.uk.