A new service to help rural communities apply for a range of funding programs was launched today.

Rural Direct will aim to ensure communities reap maximum benefit from schemes aimed at tackling climate change, reducing waste and improving environmental management.

The Crofters' Commission and the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) will operate the service, offering advice, support and technology in the applications process.

Speaking in at the SCVO headquarters in Inverness, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said: "This Government wants to see communities able to make the most of the grant funding available to them.

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"I want community groups to be fully equipped to maximise the opportunities available to them in the sustainable economic development of rural Scotland. Rural Priorities in particular will deliver real benefits for the people of Scotland and is a one-stop shop for farmers, crofters and others living and working in rural Scotland."

In the past year Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and Crofters' Commission have been awarded a total of £295,000 for 2008-09 by the Scottish Government to help Rural Scotland make the most of its potential.

"I want to see rural Scotland maximise the investment this Government has made available and look forward to seeing the results in the coming years," said Mr Lochead.

Crofters' Commission will be operating the scheme within the crofting counties. SCVO will be covering the rest of rural Scotland. This will ensure that communities across all of rural Scotland will have access to support and advice to obtain funding for projects to benefit rural communities.

The assistance given will be need based and may include information on what funding is available, support to achieve eligibility criteria and access to a computer where necessary to submit an application for funding.

Rural Direct can be reached by telephoning: 0845 838 8598.

(GK/JM)