CUDDLY toys will be used by a council chairwoman to help her raise funds for local charities.

As part of her charity drive, Ryedale District Council chairwoman Natalie Warriner is looking to promote the district's young people and create a children's foundation.

She will devote her year of office to fundraising events for the the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team and the proposed Ryedale Children's Foundation.

A group of furry friends will play a key role in her efforts, with Chair's Bears being sold at all events.

Coun Warriner said: "This year is about positively promoting our young people, and all my fundraising events will feature their talents in several ways.

"Where appropriate, young people will be playing key roles in my fundraising events, and be my escorts at events I attend on behalf of Ryedale District Council.

"Yorkshire Air Ambulance provides an invaluable service to the people of Ryedale, which is why I have chosen them as one of my charities.

"And I hope that additional fundraising money can be used for creating a Ryedale Children's Foundation to enable young people to gain positive life experiences."

Events will include a charity ball at Lady Lumley's School on September 8.

Posters, costumes and catering for the ball will be provided by pupils from Yorkshire Coast College, and music will be by the Ryedale School Swing Band and a quartet from the music service.

Tickets for the ball are available from tourist information centres or Coun Warriner on 01751-473397. Anyone with fundraising suggestions has been asked to call Coun Warriner.