PEOPLE are being invited to start the New Year by learning a skill or hobby.

The Bite Size Intros campaign is returning to the region with hundreds of free taster sessions across the county.

The campaign, which aims to attract people back to learning and make it fun, will run from January 19 until the end of May.

Lasting about an hour, Bite Size Intros will be held at venues throughout the county, including pubs, community centres, shops and colleges.

A wide-ranging choice is being offered, and in Richmond they include the chance to learn how to make and use a compost bin, to create a story sack for children, to use spreadsheets to manage money or to learn French.

Elsewhere, they include learning how to use a digital camera, the Internet and even learning how to relax.

The scheme is being run by the North Yorkshire Learning and Skills Council and spokesman Simon Kendrew said it would be the biggest yet.

"What better way to start the New Year than with a new hobby or skill? he said.

"The bonus is they are absolutely free and they could be the first step towards a new interest or even a new career."

To find out what is on offer around the county, contact the Learning Helpline on 0800 515 547, or visit the website at www.ynybitesize.co.uk