RACING of a leisurely kind will be hosted in Hambleton for a second year running this month as competitive snails prepare to take to the track.

An attempt to break the world record for snail racing will be one of the highlights of this year's Herriot Happenings - a week-long celebration in the heart of Herriot country.

Children of all ages are invited to take their gastropods to Monk Park Farm Centre, in Bagby, at 11am on Thursday, May 29, in the hope their pet will be first to the finishing line.

Organised by the 18 members of the Herriot Country Attractions Group, Herriot Happenings will also feature more than a dozen exhibitions and shows, from May 26 to June 2.

Visitors wanting to see some action will be able to enjoy a vintage car rally and dog show, while those wanting something more relaxing can stroll around painting, photograph and quilting exhibitions.

The World of James Herriot is playing host to An Evening with Jim Wight, which will see the author's son give an informal talk about life with James Herriot, as well as a guided tour round the Thirsk museum. Tickets, which are limited to 30 people, cost £5 and are available from the centre, on (01845) 524234.

Further snail racing will take place at Thirsk Racecourse on Monday, June 2, as part of a special evening race meeting. The entertainment will also include falconry displays, a veterinary quiz, and activities run by the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum, near Middlesbrough.

For more details, log on to www.herriotdaysout.co