VOLUNTARY organisations providing vital opportunities and services for young people and the elderly across Hambleton district are in line for a £50,000 cash windfall.

Grants are being given out by the district council to extend and develop work already being done by 15 voluntary groups seeking to improve the health and well being of local people.

The biggest grant, £10,000, is going to Wheels2Work, a scheme lending mopeds to youngsters under 25 who often live in rural areas and struggle to get to work or to reach further education centres.

It has been running since 2001 and has helped hundreds of young people get work or reach colleges.

The grant will make it easier for young people to find out and become involved in the scheme and improve the maintenance service offered on the mopeds as part of Wheels2Work.

"These well-established organisations provide an immediate and effective response to our community’s needs, and clearly demonstrate the value of the voluntary sector in rural communities,” said Councillor Bridget Fortune, portfolio holder for customer and leisure services.

“With statutory organisations facing increasing financial pressures and a number of public services under threat the council welcomes the opportunity to support schemes that undoubtedly bring a huge benefit to people who rely on them for support.”

Community manager Lisa Wilson added: "These organisations deliver really valuable advice and support for residents in Hambleton. The work that they do provides a huge contribution to the voluntary sector and connects many groups and organisations who offer key services for many people.”

Hambleton strollers, run through Age UK North Yorkshire is being given £5,000. It helps keep people active through a walking to health scheme, organising walks in Northallerton, Thirsk, Bedale, Easingwold , Stokesley and Great Ayton.

Cash is also being given to a range of other community transport and community care schemes including: Bedale Community Car Scheme, £2,800; Easingwold Community Care Association, £3,000; Easingwold Community Car Scheme, £2,800; Rural Transport and Access Partnership, £2,500; Hambleton Over 50’s Forum, £4,000; Northallerton and District Voluntary Service Association, £3,000; Northallerton Community Car Scheme £2,800; Stokesley Community Car Scheme, £2,800; Stokesley Community Care Association, £3,000; Thirsk Community Car Scheme £2,800; Thirsk Community Care Association, £3,000; and Yorkshire Local Councils Association, £1,200.

For more information contact Lisa Wilson on 01609 767149, or email lisa.wilson@hambleton.gov.uk