A WEBSITE has been launched to promote Bedale and increase tourism in the area.

Bedale Online has been unveiled by local entrepreneurs, who hope it will provide a platform to bring the community together and allow businesses to trade more successfully.

The website, which went live in October, displays useful information for residents and visitors alike, from local history facts to featured eating and shopping destinations.

Visitors to the interactive site have described It as "highly informative", leaving feedback, recommendations and even requesting help to find long-lost friends.

The site’s mission is to support local business and create a community feel by putting tourists, staff and local residents together in one place.

The website’s co-ordinator, Katherine Greasley, said: "The website is an essential one-stop shop for Bedale – there’s nothing else quite like it.

“It was set up because we felt there was a missed opportunity to promote the beautiful area we live in and get people to browse and buy in Bedale.

“We’d love for people to come for a browse, give us their thoughts and join the discussion."

For more information, visit bedaleonline.co.uk