A NEWLY-formed charity in Skipton can now set up a 'library of things' which it hopes to open later this year, thanks to a donation from an-environmental consultancy.

The donation of £20,667 from Broughton based Beyondly, has meant that Share Skipton has also been able to appoint a part-time development officer.

Former Ermysted's Grammar School pupil, Sam Healey, will help the charity in its aim to create a sharing, sustainable Skipton.

Sam, a former joint editor of Ermysted's award winning The Reason school newspaper, said: "I’m so excited to be joining Share Skipton at the start of this fantastic project. I’m passionate about tackling climate change and believe the library of things will make a really positive impact by helping people to buy less, reduce waste, and reduce carbon emissions, whilst saving money.”

Setting up a library of things follows meetings and a consultation with residents. It will operate in the same way as a lending library, but instead of books, will stock useful things people might only use occasionally - such as a hedge trimmer, sewing machine, gazebo, or DIY tools.

Share Skipton is currently exploring premises in central Skipton and hopes to open for business later this year.

Angela Monaghan, chair of Share Skipton, said: “We would like to say an enormous thank you to Beyondly for believing in what we are doing and backing us. We look forward to working with them over the course of the year to share the impact this donation has had.

Beyondly, formerly Comply Direct, announced in December that Share Skipton was one of 13 charities to receive a donation from its Fund for Change programme, which this year gave out £149,903. In Craven, in addition to Share Skipton, donations were also made to Skipton Step Into Action; SELFA; and Abbeyfield The Dales, as well as The UK Sepsis Trust and Yorkshire Children’s Trust.

Each year, Beyondly commits to giving five per cent of its net profit to charitable projects, which make a positive and impactful difference across a variety of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues.

Over the next 12 months, Beyondly will work alongside each charity to highlight and share the impact of the donation.

Jessica Aldersley, managing director at Beyondly, said the company had received 23 applications to the fund - more than double than in its first year. " It was inspiring to hear about the great work all of these charities are doing," she said.

For more information on Share Skipton, look on Facebook or email hello@shareskipton.org.