YOUNG people living in more than 20 parishes on the North York Moors are being urged to take advantage of an educational trust which provides funds for books and tools.

The John Stockton Education Foundation covers parishes from Thornton-le-Dale west to Beadlam, and from Farndale south to Great Barugh.

The funds are given to help young people further their education at college or university, or those serving an apprenticeship.

A memorial dedicated to Mr Stockton, who lived at Nawton and died in August 1841, at the age of 90, can be found in St Gregory's Minster, Kirkdale.

It says of him: "By industry and perseverance, he acquired an ample fortune, the greater part of which he bequeathed in trust to several townships for the education of poor children, £30 per annum being left for that purpose to this parish."

Libby Capsticks, one of the longest serving governors of the charity, said Mr Stockton acquired his wealth as a farmer and innkeeper of The Lettered Board Inn, at Beadlam.

"He bequeathed the whole of his property, with the exception of a few small legacies, for the education of poor children," she said.

The foundation's governors meet twice a year, in early December and June.

A first-time applicant usually receives about £50, while those applying for second and third grants get £30 and £20 respectively.

Application forms for help from the foundation can be obtained from foundation clerk Mary Kendall at The Sheilings, Chapel Street, Nawton, York, YO62 7RE, telephone (01439) 771575.