YOUNG people are quitting one of the most picturesque parts of the region for better paid jobs and cheaper homes.

While the population of Ryedale, North Yorkshire, has increased steadily in the past decade, the number of older people has risen while the younger generation has declined in rural villages, said Jo Reilly, the district community link officer.

"The increasing number of older people reflects national trends and increased longevity, but the loss of young people in the district is more severe than both the regional or national situation," she said in a report being produced on future community investment.

In a report to councillors, Ms Reilly said Ryedale has been divided into four needs assessment areas, centred on Pickering, Malton and Norton, Helmsley and Kirkbymoorside.

Funding for the report is being provided out of the £7m awarded to North Yorkshire County Council under the Single Regeneration Budget scheme.

She said that extra funding has been obtained from Yorkshire Forward's community investment fund, which has been used to employ Yorkshire Rural Community Council to carry out research into community needs.

Issues highlighted include the need for safe play areas for children, better public transport, upgrades to village halls, activities for young people and more bus stops.

At Helmsley, a group has been set up with the support of the town council to carry out a town plan.

It has highlighted the problem of pressure on available housing for retirement homes, second homes and holiday lets and said the trend was likely to continue.