AN exhibition aims to explode one of the myths of the Yorkshire Dales.

The interactive family shows aims to disprove once and for all that only one type of real Dales person exists.

And at the same time it will explore who has arrived, stayed in or left the area and why.

The exhibition, Part of the Landscape, will highlight the ever-changing nature of people in the Dales over thousands of years - from the Romans through to the present day.

It will initially be installed at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes as a part of the National Park's 50th anniversary celebrations. It will then be offered on loan to venues both inside and outside the Dales.

Three gazebos will be housed in the museum, covering the themes of conflict, lifestyle and work, and each will be full of interactive displays for people of all ages.

There will be games for children, as well as a reading corner where families can find out about the history of the area and its people - including a presentation with snippets from those who live or used to live in the area.

Visitors themselves can become part of the event by leaving their ideas on a tree which will be in the exhibition, or by being photographed and writing a comment that will be incorporated into the visual presentation beamed on to a museum wall.

Manager Fiona Rosher said: "People have been coming and going in and out of the Dales for thousands of years and there are many different reasons for why they have chosen to stay or to leave."

The show will be based at the Dales Countryside museum, in Hawes, from February 7, until April 18. Admission is free.

Published: 26/01/2004