THE DUCHESS of Kent is backing a charity fundraising concert in the region set to boost the work of Action Medical Research.

The Royal is backing Picnic in the Park, in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, and organisers have not ruled out an appearance by her.

Members of the Future Talent charity, backed by the Duchess of Kent, are to perform at the event which features live music.

A regular on the Thirsk entertainment calendar the Picnic in the Park raised £21,000 last year for good causes.

Organiser Sue Calvert said: "I met the Duchess of Kent in December and she was telling me about Future Talent.

"We saw some of the children in the charity perform and we asked if they would come and perform at Picnic in the Park and they are.

"It is a coup to get this and the youngsters are to perform before The Backbeat Beatles, a tribute band to The Beatles.

"We hope she might get there but we don’t know at the moment if she will."

Picnic in The Park is at Thirsk Hall with gates opening at 5.30pm and the music, including Chris Tame from Pop Idol, from 7.30pm on Saturday, July 17.

The audience can bring picnics along to enjoy along with the music and Pimms will be served.

Tickets are on sale now and they are £20 during May and June and they rise to £22 in July.

They can be obtained from Thirsk Tourist Information office on 01845-522755 or Zillah Bell Gallery on 01845-522479.