FESTIVAL organisers are appealing for patrons to help support their ambitious plans to celebrate a major milestone for their town.

Next year's Bedale 750 will be a high-profile jamboree to mark the 750th anniversary of the granting of the town's market charter by Henry III.

A £24,000 programme of events has already been announced, with nine days of events starting in late May, and other activities, mainly at weekends, until early September.

While most of the necessary cash has already been raised, the team behind the festival is widening its fundraising by launching a patron's scheme.

They are asking people to make a donation of at least £50 towards putting on the range of events.

Bedale 750 chairman and local mayor John Weighell said: "We have already been prom-ised support from local government and sponsorship from a number of business people, which will go a long way towards helping to put on events for all the community.

"We hope this new appeal will allow us to put some icing on the cake and ensure that we have a memorable and enjoyable festival."

Anyone wishing to become a patron of the festival is asked to contact Wanda Reynolds on (01677) 422178