VILLAGE and church halls across Hambleton are among 29 groups to receive cash awards from the district council’s £125,000 “Making a Difference” fund.

The authority has approved grants to groups – which ranged from £12,650 for refurbishments at Dalton village hall to £2,500 for the renovation of steps at West Tanfield and the Angel Community Festival in Osmotherley.

The funding stream - now in its second year – was established for schemes that “make a difference” to local communities.

Each of the five market towns and surrounding areas – Northallerton, Stokesley, Thirsk, Easingwold and Bedale – takes £25,000 with councillors choosing which schemes can be helped.

“A small amount of money can make a big difference,” said council leader Mark Robson.