A SCHEME which supports people with learning disabilities has been shortlisted for a grant of up to £3,000 to enable it to continue its community work.

Managers at Ripon Walled Garden, a social enterprise run by Ripon Community Link, are appealing for people to vote for it to win the Harrogate district Lloyds Bank Community Fund 2014 grant.

The Walled Garden project helps people to bring their contributions to the garden’s business and to customers.

Lindsay Tanner, the link's chief executive, said it would use the grant money to provide interactive, multi-sensory facilities for learning, play and interest in view of its new café and around the site.

She said: "This investment will enable the Walled Garden to become a place of respite and relaxation for families, where children will differing needs and interests can play and learn safely, as well as developing as a place of environmental and horticultural interest for all.

"This is an opportunity to make a difference to the lives of many in Ripon and the surrounding area, including children, young people and their families. Please vote for Ripon Walled Garden to benefit from the Community Fund award.”

People can vote for their preferred community group online, by SMS or Twitter, or in a branch of Lloyds bank until October 10. The local good cause that receives most votes in each community will receive an award of £3,000, with the other groups receiving £2,000, £1,000 or £500 depending on the votes received.

To vote, visit lloydsbank.com/communityfund, text “VOTE JKZ”, Tweet: #CommFund JKZ or visit a Lloyds branch at Ripon, Harrogate or Catterick.