RURAL community groups in need of financial support for environmental projects are being urged to consider approaching Rural Action.

The Rural Action grant programme is supported by a network of organisations across local government, nature conservation, arts and community development.

It means that, whatever the nature of the project, someone in the network is likely to have the relevant skills or will know someone who does.

An important aspect of Rural Action is that grants can be used to pay for essential technical help, or training in the skills which the group lacks.

Money is not available for capital costs, so grant aid cannot be used to buy tools. However it is possible to cover the cost of tool hire.

The maximum grant available is £2,000 per application, however large projects can receive more if they are broken down into separate stages.

Grant aid is available for up to 50 per cent of the total project cost, although the community match funding will include a valuation of voluntary effort.

Every day contributed by volunteers, whether carrying out practical works, participating in planning meetings, or helping to spread the word, is counted towards the community 'contribution'.

The Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Project is one of the network members for Rural Action.

Anyone with an idea likely to receive support from Rural Action, can contact Malcolm Hackett at the Project office on (01423) 712027.

l Read the latest rural news in our Farming and Business section on Page 22.

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