FINAL preparations are under way for a town's annual arts festival.

Zest Fest, which will start tomorrow in Northallerton, is based around the town's Hambleton Forum and is designed to celebrate local talent.

Tomorrow, amateur organisations including the Allerton Players, Alverton Singers and the North Yorkshire County Youth Dance Company will take part in a variety show hosted by drag queen Ruby Diamond.

On Thursday there will be an evening of folk, punk and poetry in the forum's ancillary hall.

Joseph Porter and his new band Red Wedding, Phil Jeays the Speechpainter and comedian Nick Toczek will perform old and new work.

On Friday night, nine bands will compete to win first place in the Battle of the Bands competition. Saturday is dance day. Demonstrations will be given of all kinds of dance, including tap, ballet stomp and ballroom.

Tickets for shows are available from Hambleton Leisure Centre on (01609) 777070.