DETERIORATING churches and conservation areas could be spruced up, under a grant scheme.

The latest group to benefit from the Ryedale Environmental Action (React) project says there could be major benefits across the district.

St Helen's Churchyard conservation group, in Amotherby, near Malton, have been awarded £2,000.

Churchwarden and parish clerk, Barbara Borrett, said: "It's great news because we can finally get on with restoring a very pretty part of the village."

React is partly funded by Ryedale District Council, together with central Government. To apply for a grant, contact Jo Reilly on (01653) 600666.