COUNCILLORS look set to get £2,000 handouts to spend on worthy projects in their neighbourhood.

When Harrogate Borough Council's ward boundaries change next year, it is likely each of the 54 members will get their own budget.

If the move is approved by the cabinet, it will mean a bill of £108,000 a year - and strict controls on how the money can be spent, together with a carry-forward plan if some members fail to spend up.

Local government rules allow for the member budgets to be used to things which will improve the economic, social or environmental well-being of local areas, and the full range of council activities is likely to come under the scheme's ambit.

If the scheme gets senior councillors' blessing it is likely to be brought in for a one-year trial period initially.

l People are invited to "adopt" trees by becoming tree wardens. The project in the Nidderdale area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) is holding a workshop at Sawley village hall, on Saturday, at 9.30am.

It follows a public meeting when the idea of a local network of tree wardens was mooted. Anyone interested in attending or helping with catering call Nidderdale AONB on (01423) 712027.