COASTAL communities along the North York Moors are set to benefit from £455,000 of funding.

The cash is expected to support at least 100 businesses and create 80 indirect jobs along the coastline between Saltburn and Cloughton.

The garn t has been secured by the national park from, the Government’s Coastal Community Fund for the “Sea Life See Life” project.

It will showcase the natural, fishing, artistic and culinary heritage of villages such as Robin Hood’s Bay, Staithes and Runswick Bay in an effort to attract more visitors.

Although led by the National Park Authority, the project will be a partnership with local businesses and communities who have already been instrumental in securing the funding.

Small-scale infrastructure projects such as interpretation and public artwork will be delivered and a mobile display unit will be used to “take the coast to the people” in urban areas.

The project will involve a strong public relations and social media-led campaign and will include various events and activities such as the development of an interactive trail in Staithes to capitalise on the TV show Old Jack’s Boat which is filmed in the village.

It is hoped workshops and skills training will also help local businesses pass on ideas for high quality experiences to visitors and encourage them to support local supply chains to strengthen the economy.

National park chief executive Andy Wilson said: “This is fantastic news for our coastal villages, such as Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay and, of course, wonderful Whitby.

“We’re really looking forward to working with businesses along the coast on some great local projects to boost the tourism industry and showcase the area’s special natural and cultural heritage.”