PLANS have been announced for festive activities to be held in Helmsley.

The town, led by the Helmsley in Business group, will be supporting Small Business Saturday, on December 1, with a day of family activities.

The event will run from 10am to 4pm and Ryedale District Council have allowed the takeover of half the Market Place car park for activity to centre around. All day car parking in the Cleveland Way car park will be reduced to £1.50.

There will be a giant Nutcracker Trail taking place across the town. Ten six and a half feet tall wooden nutcrackers will be hidden throughout Helmsley, all waiting to be found for the chance to win a prize.

Other activities taking place include a giant inflatable snow globe – ideal for getting inside and taking a selfie; a DJ from Great Yorkshire Radio providing music and entertainment; Santa’s Grotto; buskers and entertainers; food and drink tastings from businesses including Hunters, Thomas’, Porters and La Trattoria; a festive barbecue by the Fabulous Meat and Fish Co; the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Fire Brigade and Mountain Rescue organisations; and wreath making with Helmsley Walled Garden.

Helmsley Arts Centre will be launching its 2018 pantomime, Red Riding Hood on December 1 and the Christmas Tree Festival will take place in All Saints Church from December 1 to December 16.