Skipton has some of the most generous residents in North Yorkshire when it comes to donating to charity according to figures published by one of the country's leading children's charities NCH.

The town has one of the highest figures per head of population for the year 2001/2002, with £7,063 being raised by its 13,950 residents.

In comparison, Harrogate, which has about 11 times as many residents as Skipton with a population of 153,600 only raised £10,428, while York's population of 179,300 raised £29,304.

Other parts of Craven also fare well with more than £1,000 being raised in Settle, which only has a population of 2,690.

In West Craven, Barnoldswick, which has a population of 10,074, raised almost £500, while Earby, which has a population of 3,986, raised just £10.

The money raised goes towards the NCH's work with young people leaving care, children with disabilities and families in crisis.

The charity's chief executive Deryk Mead said: "We thank the people of North Yorkshire for their support over the last year. Their generosity means that we can continue to support the children and young people who need it the most."

The NCH has just launched an appeal aimed directly at helping children who have been abused. More information about the appeal can be found by contacting the supporter helpline on 0845 7626579 or by looking at the website at www.nch.org.uk/appeal