A GRANT scheme that has already helped fund more than 610 community projects across Richmondshire has opened for new bids.

Richmondshire District Council’s five Area Partnerships each have £10,000 to award to local projects.

Last month the authority’s Corporate Board agreed to continue to support the partnership grants – which have helped secure around £1.89m in funding for the district since the scheme was launched.

Grants awarded so far have gone to parish councils, community and sports groups for everything from large equipment purchases to smaller community noticeboards.

Last year £84,668 was given to 55 local schemes.

The five partnerships cover Upper Dales, Central, including Richmond, Lower Wensleydale, Garrison and North Richmondshire.

To find out more details about the funding stream, visit richmondshire.gov.uk/area-partnerships.