BRIGHTENING up most North Yorkshire landmarks does not involve safety harnesses and a good head for heights – but volunteers at a spot near Thirsk take it in their stride.

The Kilburn White Horse is being given a new paint job this weekend – and despite the demanding job volunteers say looking out over one of the best views in the region more than makes up for it.

Helen Harrison, vice chairman of the Kilburn White Horse Association, said the group tries to re-spray the horse every five years, using around 1,000 litres of paint on the one and a half acre area.

Ms Harrison said: “We have three people painting the horse, working their way down on a harness then being pulled back up.

“It will take us most of two days and it is hard work but the views are spectacular.”

The paint for the job has been sponsored by Instore Solutions Limited, based in Melsonby, near Richmond.

Ms Harrison, 31, added: “I grew up on top of the hill so it has always been part of my life.

“My dad has been in the White Horse Association since he was in his 20s and I was brought in at an early age so it has always been important to us to maintain.”

She added: “It was actually a coincidence that the re-paint was done before the Tour de France but hopefully it will look good for visitors to Yorkshire.”