GRANTS of up to £150,000 are on offer to help create jobs and promote economic growth in rural areas across the Yorkshire Dales.

The money is coming through the Yorkshire Dales LEADER programme, funded through the Department of the Environment and the European Union. They are working in collaboration with the Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust which has ploughed over £27m into 1,900 projects in the past 20 years.

Agencies, businesses and individuals across a large area from the outskirts of Darlington to Richmond, Catterick Garrison, Leyburn, Hawes, Ripon and Masham, as well as across the western parts of the Dales are eligible to apply.

Co-ordinator Rima Berry said: “LEADER is a community-led rural development programme which aims to improve the quality of life and prosperity in Yorkshire Dales communities. We have funding available to support projects ranging from forestry and farming to tourism, heritage and rural services.”

Grants of between £2,500 and £150,000 are available to support innovation and diversification, as well as encouraging collaboration and the use of new technologies. They say they also want applications for projects that capitalise on the distinctive environment and cultural landscape of the Dales.

Ms Berry added: “We have already supported some excellent projects from small business owners, from sheep handling equipment on local farms to the development of the new Courtyard Dairy cheese centre near Settle.

"Together we’re addressing local priorities and helping to develop a diverse and resilient rural economy. I would encourage any businesses that are interested in expanding to submit an Expression of Interest as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”

Information on who might be eligible and as well as the kinds of schemes that could be supported how to apply for the grants is on www.yorkshiredalesleader.co.uk/apply .