A SERIES of events are set to be staged in a market town ahead of celebrations to mark the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta.

Thirsk-based charity Rural Arts, whose groups have created banners highlighting the historic milestone and modern human rights which are being displayed outside the Courthouse, will stage free workshops through the May half-term holidays for families to design their own family crest or beast.

Inspiration for the creations can be taken from the medieval theme exhibition that will be running there from May 23.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: "It’s hard to avoid the buzz around Thirsk for the upcoming Magna Carta celebrations over the coming month – posters are in every shop window and banners are appearing across the streets."

Independent shops in the town will take part in a Window de Mowbray competition, while Thirsk Library will stage a medieval tales session with storyteller Helen Sant on Saturday, May 30, from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

The town's Rotary club is set to host a mediaeval festival to mark Baron William de Mowbray of Thirsk being among the 24 barons who signed the charter on June 13.

The event will include a medieval warfare re-enactment, shows on contemporary fashion, surgery and justice, falconry displays, coin-making workshops, archery and other entertainments, such as medieval music, jugglers and jesters, alongside stalls for trade, craft and voluntary groups.

Tickets for the festival are available from Thirsk Tourist Information Centre.

To book a place on the workshops, call 01845-526536 and for details about the library event, which costs £5 for adults and £3.50 for children, call 0845-034-9510.