A GROUP of fathers is set to stage a family-oriented beer festival to raise funds for a purpose-built youngsters' recreation area in their village.

Helperby Beer Festival will be staged in the village near Thirsk on Saturday, September 26, and will start at 9am with a contest featuring lowriders - vehicles modified so their ground clearance is less than their design specification - at Helperby Hall stable yard and in Main Street.

Nine bands, including The Sidewinders, Travellin' Band and Hardwired will perform at the village hall between 1pm and 11.30pm.

Visitors can sample 20 ales, many of which are produced in North Yorkshire, including Baron Saturday and Yorkshire Sparkle, while ciders will include ones from nearby Husthwaite and Ampleforth.

The event will also feature wine and Prosecco bars, a variety of food and a pumpkin show.

Organisers said family fun was a key part of the event, and there would be bouncy castles, children’s entertainers, face-painting and garden games.

It is hoped the event will fund some of the equipment for a recreation area in the village, where residents have to travel more than five miles to the nearest playground suitable for children aged over five.

An event spokesman said: "A recreation area for young people would be a valuable asset for the village and indeed for future generations."