YOUNGSTERS in Thirsk are being invited to join in a series of specially-designed art events.

Rural Arts, in Thirsk, has drawn up a series of childfriendly events at its Westgate base.

These include an afterschool arts group and puppet theatre.

The afterschool arts group will meet for five weeks, starting on on Wednesday, April 18.

As part of the group, children will be able to develop their creative skills by painting, drawing, sculpting and working with textiles.

The group will offer children the chance to work with professional artists.

Younger children, aged between eight and 11, will meet from 4pm to 5.30pm, and children over 11 from 5.45pm.

The fee for the course is £60, payable in advance, and includes the cost of materials.

The Freehand Puppet Theatre starts on Wednesday, April 25, at 5.30pm.

Tickets for their play, Little Red...You Know Who, are £4 for children and £6 for adults.

For more details, contact Rural Arts on 01845-526536 or visit www.ruralarts.org