A COMMUNITY trust has contributed more than £12,000 to projects in Craven and Keighley since its launch four-and-a-half years ago.

Now the Craven Trust, which has helped numerous organisations has issued its own SOS.

It is appealing for companies, individuals and public-funded bodies to support its work.

Chairman John Sheard says the trust has distributed up to £3,000 each year in response to grant applications, but in most cases the donations have failed to match desired amounts.

He said: "This has been a start but much more needs to be done as we have only been able to respond by offering approximately 10 per cent of what is really required in most cases.

"We can only attempt to address the needs of the community if we have sufficient funding in place.

"We are seeking donors - individuals, families, companies, charitable trusts and other public-funded bodies - to support local needs in the local area.

"The people and businesses of Craven will, we are sure, respond generously. Yorkshire people can be most generous - as we have already witnessed - and have a genuine concern for helping and caring for others less fortunate.

"There may not be many millionaires living in the area but there are many successful businesses and companies, and the Craven Trust would be one way to channel their giving.

"The trust has, and is, making a difference, especially tackling disadvantage and improving the quality of life through well targeted and monitored grants."

It has received the assets of the Cumberland Dole - a small inoperative charity - and is now managing the Beamsley Trust, whose former trustees have retired.

For further information - or to send donations - write to the Craven Trust at 23 Otley Street, Skipton BD23 1DY.

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