A REGIONAL arts venue has scooped a £9,610 lottery windfall to allow it to expand its programme.

Rural Arts, which has a venue at the Old Courthouse, Thirsk, and also works with a variety of rural venues, was given the funding under the Big Lottery Fund's Awards for All scheme.

The money will help run a season of events, including several workshops for children.

Jane Redfern, of Rural Arts, said: "This is fantastic news. We ran a pilot programme last year and had full audiences at most events - it's a small, but lovely venue, and to keep ticket prices reasonable and cover all of the costs we needed to get this funding.

"The grant will help fund a performing arts programme at the old courthouse, including a children's theatre company which will provide a three-day workshop for local children."

The money will also allow Rural Arts to promote events by groups like Brigantia which has an exhibition there.

The old courthouse was converted into an arts venue this year with space for exhibits and film showing.

The first show of new season at Rural Arts is Pavlo, a guitarist who mixes flamenco with Latin styles. He stops off in Thirsk as part of a national tour on Thursday, February 8, at 7.30pm, with tickets £10.

For details on Rural Arts shows, call 01845-526536 or visit www.ruralarts.org