THE council tax levied upon people with second homes in North Yorkshire is being pumped back into local communities.

More than 40 cash grants have been awarded to projects across the county, ranging from £300 to £10,000.

Among the successful applications was that from Aiskew and Leeming Bar Parish Council, which was awarded £7,000 to upgrade a play area.

The county council's executive member for community affairs, John Fort, said: "We are pleased that the extra money raised from the second homes' tax is now being used to provide an important service to the Parish of Aiskew and Leeming Bar.