A CAMPAIGN celebrating Thirsk's furniture-making heritage is being launched with the publication of a new brochure.

The Thirsk Furniture Trail features the work of nine independent furniture companies in the area.

The brochure has been master-minded by Justin Bartlett, the owner and managing director of furniture manufacturer Treske.

He said: "There is no doubt that the amazing legacy of Robert Thompson, the Mouseman of Kilburn, is thriving in Thirsk and its surrounding villages.

"The area is rich in cabinet-making skills and has a wealth of furniture-making companies with workshops and showrooms for all to see and enjoy.

“We feel it is right to shout about these companies and the splendid work they do. Not only do they produce furniture of the highest quality, they also provide skilled and sustainable employment for local people and provide a timely boost to the North Yorkshire economy."

An Open Day is being held on May 5 to highlight the trail when all the furniture companies in the Thirsk area will be open to receive visitors, while the brochures are available now from each of the furniture makers on the tour and also at Tourist Information Centres, visitor centres, pubs and guest houses.

The nine furniture makers are: Treske Furniture in Thirsk; Beaver Furniture in Sutton-under-Whitestonecliffe; Design In Wood in Thirsk; Old Mill Furniture in Balk; Carthouse Furniture in Carlton Miniott; Graham Duncalf Furniture Maker in Bagby; Squirrel Woodcarvers in Husthwaite; Coxwold Cabinet Makers in Coxwold; and Bob Hunter, Wren Cabinet Makers in Thirlby.

The brochure is sponsored by Ripon-based Duffield Timber and Rydenor Woodfinishes of Thirsk, and is supported by Hambleton Distict Council.