A conga of panto dames seeks Christmas tree for North Yorkshire festival

Saturday 5th December to Sunday 20th December 2015, Helmsley

In an area famed for its ancient woodlands and long tradition of woodcrafts (from the Mouseman to the magic ‘Nanny McPhee’ wands of Keith the Stickman), the market town of Helmsley will pay tribute to Ryedale’s tree spirits with its magical Christmas Tree Festival from 5 December, where 30 trees will be decorated in Great British panto-style.

From the traditional Pantomime Dame and Principal Boy to the Ugly Sisters and King Rat, visitors will be able to see the individually and creatively decorated trees every day, from 10am to 4pm, from Saturday 5 December to Sunday 20 December 2015, in Helmsley’s historic All Saints Church,

On 5 December, Helmsley will also celebrate the town’s many independent businesses by marking Small Business Saturday with a Festive Fun Day. The day encourages people to keep trade local and there will be activities run by local businesses, along with fun, games and entertainment for all the family taking place throughout the town from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Some of the activities taking place include a Candy Cane Trail, a road train, festive music, a DJ and compere, children’s fancy dress and novelty dog competitions, children’s crafts, Christmas baking, games, rides, entertainers, choirs, bee keepers, food and drink tastings, a selfie portrait booth, stalls and of course a few surprises… (including a visit from the man himself – Santa!)

For more information about Christmas in Ryedale’s market towns, including details of places to stay, visit www.visitryedale.co.uk/christmas. For more information about the Malton Dickens Festival and to book tickets, visit www.dickensgifttoyorkshire.com.

For more media information please contact:

Nicola Bexon, Pyper PR: 01904 500698 or nic@pyperyork.co.uk