A FUND that has helped more than 300 Richmondshire organisations secure more than £1million has been allocated further cash.

District councillors have agreed to put a further £25,000 pot for the five area partnerships - £5,000 each.

The cash is available for small, grassroots projects, with each having the chance to apply for up to a maximum of £500.

Established in 2009 the partnerships work across five areas - Central Richmondshire, Catterick Garrison, North Richmondshire, Upper Wensleydale and Swaledale and Lower Wensleydale.

They address local needs and issues and aim to involve communities in decisions affecting them, identify priorities for the local area and deal with any local concerns or issues residents may have.

“This pot of money is vital for small community groups as it allow the district council to help lever in funds from other groups,” said the authority’s deputy leader Cllr Ian Threlfall.

“One million pounds is a sizeable amount of money – we look forward to seeing many more projects flourish through our help.

“It can support vital community projects – many of which may not happen without this fund or can continue the good work they are already doing.”

For more information contact Chloe Lewis on 01748-901038 or chloe.lewis@richmondshire.gov.uk.