26 local community groups have benefited from almost £11,000 of grant funding, thanks to the 'Flock to Skipton' sheep sculptures which were a major talking point in the town during the summer of 2010.

A total of £12,600 was raised at the auction of the sheep sculptures, which took place at the Art in the Pen event held in August last year.

37 groups applied for a share of the funds, distributed recently by Skipton Town Council's Public Services Committee.

One of the largest grants (£750) went to the 'Friends of Lytham Play Area' towards the purchase of new play equipment.

Some of the other grants awarded included £500 towards equipment for Skipton Dreamscheme where disadvantaged young people can save towards trips away in return for working in the community, just over £450 towards new 'polytunnels' and watering systems for the Stepping Stones II project at Aireville Park and £500 towards equipment for Skipton Exercise which helps local people recovering from heart surgery.

Four local scout, brownies and beavers clubs benefited from grants towards equipment, as have several local playgroups.

Dave Parker, Chief Officer of Skipton Town Council, said: "We were all amazed and delighted that the Flock to Skipton sheep raised so much money for worthy local causes - particularly as the Council itself wasn't able to make its own grant distribution this year.

"It was a perfect way to wrap up what was a very successful event. The sheep sculptures attracted thousands of extra visitors to Skipton and got us some well placed publicity. The fact that we were able to help nearly 30 local community groups into the bargain was a real bonus."

Around £1,700 of the proceeds were not distributed and will be retained by the Council and added to its Community Grant funding for 2012.

Mr Parker added: "We're looking at our budgets for the next financial year and are hopeful that we will be able to add a decent amount to the leftover funds from the sheep auction. Charities and community groups are struggling for funding at the moment and we will do everything we can to try and help. We know that even small amounts can really make a difference."

The 22 sheep sold at the auction formed part of a trail of 26 unique sculptures around Skipton in the summer of 2010 - many were bought by local people and businesses.

A total of £10,873 was distributed from the proceeds of the auction.

The full list of awards:

Coulthurst Craven Sports Centre - £500

Craven Citizens Advice Bureau - £351.79

Skipton Extended Learning for All - £450

Friends of the Wilderness - £500

Skipton Exercise - £556

Craven Volunteer Centre - £500

Friends of Lytham Play Area - £750

Stepping Stones II Project - £458.65

CRUSE Craven & Bradford area - £305

Skipton in Bloom - £495

Skipton Civic Society - £220

Skipton Cricket Club - £230

1st Skipton Rainbows - £150

St Andrew's Play Group - £200

Craven Open Door - £300

Alzheimer's Society - Skipton Branch - £750

1st Skipton Brownies - £150

Skipton Dreamscheme - £500

Skipton Bowling Club - £500

3rd Skipton Beavers, Cubs & Scouts - £620

Duke of Wellington Association - £150

Royal British Legion - Skipton Branch - £230

Holy Trinity Parish Church - £500

Little Feet Creche - £500

5th Skipton Scouts - £500

Skipton Greenfingers - £507