THE diversity of life in Richmondshire will be celebrated at a unique festival next month.

The "Celebration of Many Cultures" will take place on May 7 at The Station, in Richmond, and will include arts and crafts demonstrations and dance performances.

The first event of its kind in the district, it is designed to celebrate the area’s multi-cultural makeup, and so will include Yorkshire traditions as well as those of other cultures.

Attractions already signed up include a Japanese arts stall, Indian dancing, Bulgarian singing, and traditional Dales heritage and folk music.

The festival will be supported by a range of local organisations, including Richmondshire Local Strategic Partnership, Arts in Richmondshire, Richmondshire District Council, North Yorkshire County Council, Richmondshire Council for Voluntary Services and others.

The event will also see the formal launch of a "Welcome Pack", to help anyone moving into Richmondshire. The online resource will contain a wealth of useful contact information, details about local services, and the like.

Organiser Robin Battersby, of Arts in Richmondshire, said: "The Celebration of Many Cultures promises to be a fantastic day.

"It’s the first time we’ve tried such an ambitious event, and we’re very lucky to have already booked some fantastic entertainment."

The event will run between 10.30am and 5.30pm and is free. To find out more contact 01969-625142 or visit www.richmondshire.gov.uk/cultures