A COMMUNITY-based sports organisation is busy refurbishing its home in the Yorkshire Dales thanks to a welcome cash boost from the local district council.

The Yorebridge Sports Development Association has received a grant from the Communities Opportunity Fund to carry out work on two classrooms to encourage use by the wider community for leisure and work activities.

Once complete the rooms at their Askrigg base will be used as meeting venues as well as office space for local people wanting to work closer to home but with no dedicated provision at home.

Altogether the costs will be just under £4,500 – of which £3,588 has been granted from the Richmondshire fund.

Council leader Yvonne Peacock said: “This centre is a beacon for sport, wellbeing and social interaction for people of all ages in the Upper Dales.

“It is more than just a gym – it is a meeting place for the community and provides social and fitness opportunities that would not otherwise be available in our rural community.

“This award not only helps to increase the opportunities there but helps with the sustainability of the facility.”