THERE is some brighter news on funding for rural roads in the region. Several schemes in North and East Yorkshire have received substantial funding from Whitehall's 'Local Growth Deal'.

They include dualling of the A1079 near Barmby Moor; a new roundabout on the A169 near Malton; and improvements to the A1/ A59 junction near Knaresborough.

The money – £12.1 million in total – was secured by the York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Local Enterprise Partnership.

It is a drop in the ocean compared to spending on roads in other parts of the country. But we look forward to it making at least some difference.