A MIXTURE of music, drama and spiritual reflection will take people on a journey across moorland in the lead up to Easter.

A series of walks and events celebrating the spirit of the North York Moors has been organised to run over seven weekends.

In a partnership between the Moors National Park Authority and Holy Rood House, centre for health and pastoral care in Thirsk, the free events will be open to everybody.

They aim to celebrate the National Park's cultural heritage, its inspiring qualities and mark peoples' gratitude for the pastoral care carried out by Holy Rood House over the past decade.

Local artists, musicians and eminent speakers will give each event, which will be held at different sites across the moors, a distinct flavour and atmosphere for people seeking refreshment, renewal and restoration, said the Reverend Elizabeth Baxter.

The park's chief executive, Andy Wilson, will start off the programme of events on Sunday, March 9, at Young Ralph Cross, focusing on caring for the Earth and spiritual refreshment from the landscape.

"The Park is renowned for its moorland crosses and sacred places," he said.

"The events are very much an opportunity to celebrate the special, distinctive qualities of this national park."

Details of events on all Sundays leading up to Easter are available at local libraries and shops or by visiting the website at www.moors.uk.net.