A TAPESTRY which received national recognition when featured on television has been bought by Hambleton District Council and South Tees Health Authority.

It was originally commissioned by Madeira Threads of Thirsk to mark the millennium.

The shop in Finkle Street, has since closed but the tapestry, consisting of five embroidered panels depicting the history of Britain over the last 1,000 years, is to be displayed at Northallerton's Friarage Hospital and the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

The council's leader, Coun June Imeson, said: "We want to see these pieces here in Hambleton and, by working with the health authority, we can do just that.

"One of our aims is to enhance the arts in the district and we hope that this work of art will inspire specialist art classes and occupational therapy opportunities in the district."

The initial location of the tapestry depends on redevelopment works being carried out at both hospitals and the tapestries will also feature in an exhibition in all market towns in the area.