VICTORIAN times were brought to life for pupils from Reeth and Gunnerside.

Youngsters gathered in Reeth Primary School, where they were visited by Jane Sammells and Julie Bissicks from Curriculum Kitchen.

The two women came to the school dressed in period costumes and took the children through games and activities linked to the subject of Victorian Britain.

Curriculum Kitchen was set up by Mrs Sammells from Satron, near Gunnerside, and Mrs Bissicks, from Arkengarthdale, after years of helping with activities at their own children's schools.

The pair started the company with funding help from the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and now run educational activities on a range of themes including the Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, Tudors, Victorians and the Second World War.

The days are aimed at pupils aged seven-11, and give children the chance to prepare and taste historical recipes, such as Viking-style dried meat and berries, and Tudor spices. The company also offers geography-based activities.

Mrs Sammells and Mrs Bissicks run all the activities dressed in historically accurate costumes made by Rebecca Atkinson, of Applegarth Designs.

Mrs Sammells said: "We've had more interest than we ever expected, and the children really enjoy it. The schools like us to dress up because that's what the children really remember. It's very active learning, so the children take in a lot of information without even realising they are working."

For details, contact 01748 886084 or 01748 884912.