A NEW scheme with £3.4m in funds to help farm community businesses has been established by North Yorkshire County Council.

Acting with the money from Yorkshire Forward, the council has appointed an agricultural development officer, Nick White, based in the council's economic development centre.

Grants will be available to groups or individuals working collaboratively to provide a service or develop a project that will help business compete and prosper. The aim is to enhance the environment and attract and retain investment within rural and coastal areas.

A few projects have already been aided by the scheme including the Yorkshire Rural Support Network which provides advice and support to tackle stress in rural communities; a Local Food Produce initiative which promotes locally-produced foods; Wensleydale Fine Foods, to establish a producer club.

Anyone wanting more information or to discuss a possible project should ring Mr White on (01609) 532974.

Updated: 11:16 Thursday, February 14, 2002