A CRAFTSMAN is hoping a £500 grant will help him to expand his business.

Tim Rook, 30, makes contemporary mirrors and hand-carved furniture from his base at the Dales Centre, in Reeth.

He has been awarded the money by Richmondshire District Council to buy hand-carving tools and a special saw.

"I am producing a new range of mirrors which require very accurate cuts because they are very contemporary in style and very angular," he said.

"The grant and the new saw will come in really useful for that."

Mr Rook, a former Army captain, set up the business last year. He works to commission and exhibits his pieces in galleries around the country.

"It is going pretty well," he said. "I am learning new things every day."

He is also taking part in this year's Open Studios event, when more than 100 artists and craftspeople in North Yorkshire will open their doors to the public.

The event takes place over three weekends next month.