A TRUST fund has been launched to protect future generations of Cheshire's rural community against severe financial hardships.

Cheshire Rural Trust Fund, an idea born during the aftermath of foot-and-mouth and September 11, has a target of £5m by 2008.

It will provide protection in the event of a similar disaster and will also support education and training in rural industries. So far £120,000 has been donated by individuals and local landowners, Cheshire County Council and Macclesfield Borough Council.

The Duke of Westminster made a £10,000 donation to the fund last year.

He said: "We must not forget the problems being faced by our rural communities.

"Latest figures show a loss of 450 agricultural jobs and a loss of output to Cheshire estimated at £15m-£19m.''

The trust is an independent charity set up by Cheshire's rural recovery committee.