KEIGHLEY-district rural communities which struggle during winter weather could receive a helping hand.

Rural Action Yorkshire is offering £250 grants to create schemes which help vulnerable people.

Martha Holmes, co-ordinator of the so-called Craven Winter Weather project, said cold snaps are still possible for another couple of months.

"Grants could go towards gritting roads or footpaths or communities might wish to use them to set up 4x4 rotas that help everyone get to the shop in icy or snowy weather – including older or more vulnerable people with no access to transport," she said.

"They could also be used in the organisation and promotion of a central meeting point, such as a village hall, where everyone could come together to be warm and have access to hot food and drinks."

Visit ruralyorkshire.org.uk or call 0845 313 0270 for further details.