A SAWMILL in Helmsley has been commissioned to play its part in York’s newest attraction this summer as it hosts Europe’s first pop-up Shakespearean theatre.

Duncombe Sawmill, which specialises in traditional woodworking techniques, has been appointed to make the refreshments and merchandise buildings for Shakespeare’s Rose Theatre, which will entertain audiences between June 25 and September 2 beside Clifford’s Tower in the heart of York.

To add to the Elizabethan-inspired attraction, the organisers of the event, Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, are creating a free-to-enter Shakespearean Village outside the theatre, and asked Duncombe Sawmill to create rustic timber framed buildings.

The traditional reed-thatched buildings will house a fully licensed bar, and Yorkshire street food vendors, who have been selected by Brian Turner, the Yorkshire-born celebrity chef and food ambassador for the Village. There will be an oak-framed merchandise shop.

James Cundall, chief executive of Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, said: “For me a major aspect of this project was to showcase the best Yorkshire has to offer, both in terms of the construction of the event as well as food and beverage offerings, and Duncombe Sawmill immediately came to mind when I was planning the village. We are fortunate to have a company of such expertise and quality literally on our doorstep.”

Both of the buildings being produced by Duncombe Sawmill are made out of locally grown larch, sourced from the Castle Howard Estate, and supplied in kit form so they can be installed and removed quickly, and used in other locations.

Duncombe Sawmill has been based in Helmsley for more than 100 years. Clients include the North York Moors National Park Authority, the Forestry Commission and London Fashion Week.

Three of the Sawmill’s joiners are working on bringing the project to life - Steve Shepherd, Eddie Garbutt and Kieran Windross.

Duncombe Sawmill owner Emma Woods said: “We are lucky that we can work to a very exact specification because we have our own mill and can cut timber to odd sizes. We love the challenge of being asked to make something different and bespoke and to find and use the best technique for the job. We are thrilled that Lunchbox Theatrical Productions have asked us to be part of this amazing event.”

The theatre itself has been built by Acorn Event Construction in Sherburn-in-Elmet,