A WENSLEYDALE hotel has announced plans for a weekend of live music.

Stone House Hotel, near Hawes, will host the first ever Midwinter Sessions on January 23 and 24.

Eight bands will perform over the weekend, with event organiser Josh Westwood playing the opening set on the Friday night.

He said: “I have wanted to organise a music event at Stone House for some time and now I feel is an excellent time to do just that.

"With the exception of one or two excellent local events, the music scene in the Wensleydale area is very limited, and I hope this is a step in the right direction towards gaining a strong local scene.

"The atmosphere here at Stone House is very relaxed and intimate, and that will fit in perfectly with the type of music on offer over the weekend.”

The artists chosen for the event are all from the North of England.

As well as Wensleydale singer/songwriter Josh Westwood, Friday night will feature performances by York guitarist Toby Burras, Teesside blues duo Two Blue and Durham electro-euphoric band Silent Houses.

On Saturday, Wakefield singer/songwriter Terri-Ann, Darlington guitarist Dave Brittle, Morecambe troubadour Joe McCorriston and Middlesbrough band The Alice Charmers will take to the stage.

The event is being sponsored by Darlington guitar company Cassidy Guitars.

All tickets include a dish from the special event menu, and are £25 per person for a one night pass; £45 per person for a weekend pass, or £160 per person for a Weekend Residential ticket.

To book, call 01969-667571 or visit stonehousehotel.co.uk/live-music