BENEFITS and debt made up more than half of the enquiries received by Ryedale Citizens Advice Bureau last year.

The CAB's annual report for 2014-15 states that 56 per cent of its 5,479 "new client issues" came under those categories.

Some 1,948 enquiries (36 per cent) were for benefits issues, with 1,101 (20 per cent) for debt matters.

Just 468 (nine per cent) of cases were for employment issues, with 338 (six per cent) for housing.

The report states: "While the spread of enquiries by advice issues has remained constant over several years, the complexity of the benefit system, alongside the continual changes, is a challenge for clients and advisers alike."

Ryedale CAB holds it annual meeting at Harrison House in Norton at 10.30am on Tuesday, October 15.

The meeting will also see Ryedale CAB chairwoman Janet Sharp retiring from her role.

She said: "It’s been an interesting and challenging two years.

"I’ve learned a lot, but feel now is the time has come to hand over the role to someone else.

"I will, however, be seeking re-election to the board as I would like to continue to support this very worthwhile organisation."

Elsewhere in the report, manager Sue Bywater says the CAB is seeking funding to extend its advice service via email and webchats and introduce one evening session per week.

A lack of funding has meant an end to the CAB's immigration advice service.