MORE money is being invested in repairs to flood-ravaged parts of North Yorkshire.

Millions have already been spent on the clean-up and repairs after the disastrous flash flood that hit the county last summer.

And now development agency Yorkshire Forward has agreed to give £140,000 towards essential works in the North York Moors National Park.

The financial help is aimed at encouraging visitors back to the area in the wake of the floods to support the local economy.

The money will fund repairs to footpaths and 16 bridges on the moors, in the hope of improving access in time for the summer.

It will bridge the Park Authority's funding gap after cash budgeted for other repairs to the park had to be diverted following the floods, leaving other work months behind schedule.

Yorkshire Forward's head of rural renaissance and tourism, Andy Tordoff, said the moors were a key visitor attraction and the hub of a thriving local economy.

He said: "It is vital that these repairs are carried out to ensure people are able to enjoy this area of outstanding beauty freely and safely, as well as ensuring local businesses continue to grow."

The chief executive of the North York Moors National Park, Andy Wilson, said: "Tourism is vital for the region's economy, and bridges on public rights of way are critical for enabling locals and tourists to access the countryside for work and pleasure.

"This funding will play an important role in helping the area rejuvenate following the devastating floods.

"It is very much 'open for business' and we look forward to what will hopefully be a very successful season."

Head of park services Richard Gunton said: "We are committed to making sure that these bridges are replaced and all remaining public footpaths and bridleways are open ready for the 2006 tourist season, and hopefully earlier."