COMMUNITY groups looking to improve their environment can apply for a grant to help them plant more trees.

Under Hambleton District Council's carbon reduction scheme, projects can receive grants of up to £1,500. Last year, 13 schemes received a share of £11,186.

The funding was used for projects such as creating a wildlife garden in a school and defining the perimeter of village allotments.

The scheme is part of the council's programme to alert local people to climate change and urge them to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Initially, £10,000 was available to voluntary organisations, such as parish councils, for a variety of schemes, ranging from planting small woodlands to establishing reed beds.

Up to 75 per cent of the total eligible costs of the project can be provided, with grants awarded ranging from £150 to £1,500.

Officials are looking for projects to help this year and next. Groups wishing to apply for funding can call Noel Collings, the council's sustainable development officer, on 01609-767160 or email noel.collings@hambleton.gov.uk.

Schemes helped so far include: Appleton in Bloom, £465 towards five oak saplings, to be planted along the boundary of the village recreation field; Danby Wiske Parish Council, £208 for a mixed hedge along the approach to the village; Scruton Allotments Association, £165 towards a perimeter hedge for the allotments; Scruton Parish Council, £1,157 for a variety of trees to restore the wooded character of the village.

Huby Parish Council, £873.27 towards a variety of trees and hedging; Alne Parish Leisure Association, £480 to help create a wooded area; and Sessay Parish Council, £1,085 towards the enhancement of the village and local parkland.