SHOPPERS in a North Yorkshire town have raised more than £13,000 for local charities in the past six months.

The money has been raised by shoppers at Stokesley’s two Co-operative stores and Co-operative Funeralcare in the town.

The organisation donates one per cent of all the money from its own brand products bought by customers who have registered as members. Registered customers can choose which of the charities they want their money to go to.

Over the past six months, £13,450 has been raised, which has been shared between Stokesley Town Hall Trust, Yatton House Society, which provides activities for adults with learning disabilities and Stokesley and District Rotary Club’s trust fund.

Lee Baldwin, the manager of the Co-op in the town centre, said charities can now apply for the next round of funding.

Judy Kitching, the president of Stokesley and District Rotary was delighted with the money received, which will go towards helping young carers’ projects in the community.

“This is far more money than I ever thought,” she said.

“It will make such a difference to so many people.”

The money for Stokesley Town Hall Trust will go towards the refurbishment of a new kitchen in the hall.

Bryn Griffiths, Stokesley Parish Councillor said: “It will be put to good use and will benefit everyone who visits the town hall.”

Charities can now apply for the next round of funding by visiting: https://causes.coop.co.uk/ or ringing; 0800 023 4708

Customers can apply for membership and take part in the scheme by visiting the website: coop.co.uk/membership or by calling 0800 023 4708.