A PERMANENT home for Borrowby Agricultural Show could be created by a plan to provide a new location for outdoor events in the Hillside area near Thirsk.

This is thanks to a European grant which could see £450,000 coming into the area.

The proposals took a major step forward at the weekend when the independent consultant appointed to produce a feasibility study and action plan, Mr Peter Standing, met members of the Hillside rural activities project in Knayton village hall.

The group wants to acquire and develop a permanent facility for a wide range of rural events, benefiting the economy.

"This development will make a significant contribution to the community," said Coun John Thorp, chairman of the steering group.

"It may be possible for the football and cricket clubs to utilise the site, with improved family-friendly facilities. Add to that a properly maintained play area, conservation and wildlife corners and recycling points, and the facility will be an all-round community project."

He said a professionally-equipped and legally-compliant site could also be a focus for rural events such as agricultural shows, farmers' markets outdoor craft fairs and caravan rallies. And as the site developed, Hillside scouts might also use it for regional and county activities.

The Hillside ward is the only area in Hambleton district to qualify for the money, through Objective 2, priority scheme 3, which will operate over the next six years.

l A group of seven Hillside villages has won £15,000 under the Countryside Agency's Vital Villages initiative.

The cash will fund a parish action plan for Knayton, Boltby, Upsall, Kirby Knowle, Felixkirk, Cowesby and Borrowby, helping them take stock of their facilities, identify future needs and allow residents to take part in planning.

Each household will receive a questionnaire, and the results will form the basis of the plan.

At present, the seven villages share a part-time post office, village shop and three pubs. Transport to Thirsk or North-allerton is limited and there are no recreational facilities.

Ms Alison John, Vital Villages co-ordinator at the Countryside Agency, said: "The Parish Plan is about giving parishes a chance to run their own affairs and the ability to set out what they want their town or village to become."