AN appeal has been made for more volunteers to help North Yorkshire County Council's home library service.

The service is provided by more than 200 volunteers in 25 schemes, who visit 700 people every fortnight - but more volunteers are needed to meet the demand.

Under the scheme, books and audio books are delivered to people who find it difficult to get to the library.

Councillor Chris Metcalfe, executive member for library and information services, said: "When you can't get out and about easily, still being able to read and enjoy books makes a huge difference to your quality of life.

"We are really pleased that we have been able to expand the service to so many extra people, but we are now struggling to meet demand, with nearly 90 people on the waiting list.

"Many service users are elderly people - lifelong readers who can no longer get their books.

"By March next year, we expect to need another 100 volunteers."

More information is available from the home library and information service on (01423) 861718.