UNEMPLOYMENT across North Yorkshire has risen, according to official figures released yesterday.

The Office for National Statistics reported 5,666 people were out of work this month, a total of two per cent of the "economically active" population.

That compares with 5,555 people claiming unemployment benefits last month and represents a rise of 111.

In Ryedale 459 people are relying on unemployment-related benefits.

Updated: 11:46 Thursday, September 13, 2001