FOLK who love Barnsley are being urged to take part in a new campaign to raise community cash for the borough.

The 'I Love Barnsley' scheme was launched this week with the promise that all donations will be doubled by the government to benefit community groups.

And 'Barnsleyites' can help the campaign by using a new internet search engine - everyclick.com/barnsley. Each time a search is made it automatically raises money for local causes.

The South Yorkshire Community Foundation is running 'I Love Barnsley'. Paul Benington, of the Foundation, said: “This is a fantastic way that people can do their bit to kick start the ‘I Love Barnsley’ campaign.

“It costs absolutely nothing to take part, as the money raised comes straight from advertising revenue. “The more passionate Barnsley folk get involved, the more local causes will benefit so we would urge people to get going right away and help change Barnsley one click at a time.”

The Chronicle is backing the campaign, along with the Chamber of Commerce and the One Barnsley organisation. A community cash give-away, which last year saw £25,000 handed to Barnsley charities, associations and groups, will be launched in the paper this month.

And SYCF is encouraging businesses and residents to do their bit to support the campaign on 'I Love Barnsley day', Friday, February 12.

Paul added: “It will give people in Barnsley the opportunity to have fun while raising money for local causes. We are asking people to get involved with a variety of initiatives, whether it be a dress down day at their workplace or a sponsored walk at school.

“Barnsley people are some of the most generous in the country, and what we are finding at the moment is that there is still a huge commitment to helping other people.

“With the pound for pound match funding, we are giving businesses, organisations and individuals the opportunity to get more bang for their buck with the most effective donation they will ever make.

“Whether it is a £2 donation for a dress down day at work, or a larger donation from a local business that is committed to giving something back to the area, every little bit helps towards making sure Barnsley doesn’t miss out.”

Chronicle editor, Robert Cockroft, urged community groups to make the most of this year's Chronicle cash give-away.

"The response to last year's campaign was fantastic and we are delighted to once again back the South Yorkshire Community Foundation.

"Scores of grassroots groups benefited in 2009 and this year we hope even more will take advantage and show that community spirit in Barnsley is alive and well."