A PARENT, baby and toddler group is set to be launched after volunteers landed a £46,000 grant.

Charity East Thirsk Community Association said the People’s Health Trust funds would enable it to create a group to promote play and learning through fun activities involving music, painting, crafts.

The group hopes to boost parents and carers' confidence, health and wellbeing, while learning skills such as arts and crafts and cooking and having fun.

Sessions, costing £2 per family, will be held from next month during school term time on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 1.15pm to 3pm at East Thirsk Community Hall, Hambleton Place, Thirsk.

The entry price includes refreshments and healthy snacks.

Chair of East Thirsk Community Association and councillor Cynthia Hesmondhalgh said the group would also provide an opportunity to meet new people, make new friendships and try activities.

She said: “This is a very exciting time for East Thirsk Community Association and its hall.

"We have been given the opportunity to provide a much-needed group in the local area, creating a stimulating and caring environment for parent and carers and their children.

"We are working closely with other organisations in the local area including the local primary school to ensure the group is a great success and we have a fantastic team including a project co-ordinator and play leader eagerly waiting to officially open the group in September.”

For details about the group, call 01845-522055 or email: ronald.hesmondhalgh123@btinternet.com