AN appeal by church leaders and other prominent figures of a North community to aid householders whose homes were devastated in the floods last month, has reached £15,000.

Methodist minister the Reverend Sue Greenwood, chairwoman of the appeal committee in Helmsley, North Yorkshire, said it was holding its first meeting this week to decide where the greatest and most urgent needs were.

The Reverend David Wilbourne, vicar of All Saints, and Father Alberic Stacpoole of St Mary's Catholic Church, Helmsley, are helping with the appeal along with Lord and Lady Feversham and Lord and Lady Mexborough.

"The response has been amazing, absolutely wonderful" said Mrs Greenwood.

"We have had donations from all parts of the country, from individuals sending £5 to show their concern, to businesses and organisations. Churches have had special collections. We are really grateful to everyone."

She added: "Our aim is to get the money collected and distributed as quickly as possible. We expect the appeal will last for about three months."

Harrogate Male Voice Choir, which has appeared at Helmsley and Rievaulx Methodist churches in the past, is giving a concert at Starbeck Methodist Church, in Harrogate, on July 16, at 7.30pm, in aid of the fund.