THE impacts of climate change will be dramatised by children during workshops next week.

About 80 youngsters from eight primary schools in Wensleydale will join professional actors at the Dales Countryside Museum, in Hawes, to examine the theme.

The event, on Tuesday, is run by Liverpool-based Altru Drama Company, which works in schools on social and environmental topics.

It includes a specially-written play on climate change, its impacts and what people can do to lessen its impact.

The play will be followed by a 60-minute workshop focusing on the effects of climate change on the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and how the children can help to offset them.

Emma Casson, carbon reduction officer for North Yorkshire schools, said: "North Yorkshire County Council and the national park authority have commissioned this project to raise the pupils' awareness of climate change and to inspire them to take part and introduce energy-saving activities in their school.

"Drama is great way to engage children. We want the event to teach them to take responsibility and educate them on the impact of their actions and habits, but in a fun way."

Moya Turrell, the national park authority's sustainable development officer, said she hoped the workshop would inspire youngsters to save energy in small ways, such as switching off unwanted lights.