NATIONAL Park chiefs are on the hunt for projects that will raise awareness of their area or will benefit local communities and heritage.

People are being invited to apply for a share of £72,400 in funding from the North York Moors tourism and local distinctiveness and community grant schemes.

The latter offers up to £3,500 for small scale projects that improve facilities, bring environmental benefits or enhance a local heritage asset.

Tourism and local distinctiveness grants of up to £5,000 are available to tourism businesses, voluntary and collaborative groups in the wider North York Moors area .

The funding could help launch a new product using local ingredients, establish an event that would draw people outside the main season or help several businesses market a combined offer to entice more visitors.

More information on the grant schemes and how to apply can be found at northyorkmoors.org.uk/grants or by calling 01439-772700.