A HOTEL is to sponsor an annual community event which could provide a major boost to small businesses in a North- East town.

The Tall Trees Hotel, in Yarm, near Stockton, is to sponsor the town’s gala on June 21.

As well as celebrating Yarm’s history and heritage, the gala will also showcase the range of shopping, leisure and business opportunities the town has to offer.

Javid Majid, from Tall Trees, said: “It’s such a great family occasion to be involved with, especially as this year we will be helping to promote and support small, local businesses at a time when they need it most.”

Yarm Town Council is organising the gala.

Council chairman Jason Hadlow said: “Having a major name such as Tall Trees on board means that we’re able to provide even more entertainment and continue with our plans to make the gala bigger every year.”