SCHOOLS, groups and charities in North and East Yorkshire have struck gold in the latest round of Millennium Festival Awards.

More than £80,000 has been received in York alone for projects ranging from re-roofing Skelton village hall to forming a mixed volleyball team in the city.

Other areas to benefit from the National Lottery grants include east Yorkshire, where the Pocklington Canal trip boat group received £2,942.

The largest awards in York, receiving the maximum £5,000, include the friends of Tang Hall School, who will use the moneyto provide a community training room with attached creche facility.

The Jorvik Vikings also received £4,952 to buy new equipment for the historical re-enactment group.

Regional acting senior award officer Paul Ritchie said: "Millennium Awards For All" has made a real difference.

"Many of the projects will run beyond the year 2000 and will provide a lasting legacy for local people."

Another recipient is York Union of Golf Clubs, receiving £4,900 to promote and encourage links between school and golf clubs through training volunteers.

Others to receive awards include Woodthorpe Pre-school playgroup, York and District Youth Rugby League Development Group and Hamilton Panthers Football club.

Naburn local history group received £4,785 to archive historical data and photograph all houses in the village, while York City Ladies Football Club will use their £1,825 to increase awareness of women's football.

"Awards will continue until at least April 2002," added Mr Ritchie.

Grants of between £500 and £5,000 can be awarded. Information packs are available on 0845 6002040.