CHANGES have been made to the rules which govern grants from the Countryside Agency and the National Lottery which mean communities will no longer have to raise half the money themselves.

Until now, Local Heritage Initiatives have only been part-funded by a partnership between the two agencies.

The new policy means 100 per cent grants of up to £25,000 are now available to pay for projects which are designed to preserve, enhance or investigate the heritage of the county's communities.

"This is good news for people everywhere," said Local Heritage Initiative advisor, Jane Haigh. "Until now, groups wishing to undertake a heritage project have needed to provide an element of funding. They also had to claim back funds after payment, rather than being able to benefit from cash advances.

"However, 100 per cent grants are now available and part of these funds will also be made available in advance to allow schemes to get under way without financial constraints. What is more, we have also made the application forms simpler, so it is even easier to apply."

Projects already funded include a chronicle of Boltby's medieval past, a heritage trail around Fryton and the restoration of Pocklington's canal.

For details about the scheme, call 0870 9000 410 or visit the Local Herit- age Initiative website at www.lhi.org.uk