BRITAIN'S favourite astronomer travelled deep into a North Yorkshire forest to launch a facility for stargazers.

Sir Patrick Moore, veteran presenter of TV's Sky At Night went to Dalby Forest, near Pickering, where he joined members of the Scarborough and District Astronomical Society.

The night skies in the forest, relatively unpolluted by light, create ideal conditions for staring into the heavens.

Two purpose-built domes have been created, each housing a telescope, one of which features a powerful 18.75in reflecting mirror.

The observatories are next to the Dalby Forest visitor centre and will be available to the public on the first Friday of every month.

The first open night will be on October 5 and the society also hopes to host schools and other interested groups.

"This is one of the largest public telescopes in northern England," said society president John Harper.

"It's fitting that Sir Patrick should officially declare it open. He has inspired generations of stargazers over the years and we hope in our own small way, to follow that shining example."

Sir Patrick said: "This sort of facility is absolutely vital for creating the astronomers of the future and it gives many people, including lots of youngsters, a good interest."