A PROJECT allowing communities to choose the type of unpaid work carried out by offenders has been launched.

Tasks undertaken by offenders who receive community orders could include removing graffiti, clearing litter, repairing playgrounds or renovating churchyards.

North Yorkshire probation service's Community Payback initiative was launched in Harrogate yesterday with the release of balloons.

Roz Brown, chief officer of North Yorkshire Probation Area, said: "Community Payback will encourage people to feel involved in and informed about what goes on in their neighbourhoods.

"As a result, the local area will benefit and we hope people will take a long-term, pro-active interest in offenders' work and how projects are developing."

Residents can nominate projects for offenders by visiting www.nyprobation.org.uk