HAXBY'S new mobile library has had its first outing, with about 150 people attending its official launch.

The facility was unveiled at Oaken Grove Community Centre in Haxby, where locals enjoyed tea and cake and a tour of the new mobile.

The communities of Haxby and Wigginton have had a temporary library in Oaken Grove Community Centre, since the permanent building was closed last summer, because of structural problems.

The van will serve the and town and village until a new permanent home is ready in Haxby Memorial Hall.

An opening speech was made by James Henderson, the chairman of Explore York’s board of trustees, and the ribbon was cut by councillor Nigel Ayre, from City of York Council, which has supported Explore in developing the new service.

The van has Explore library branding so is recognisable, and is equipped with self-service technology. It will be offering activities and events such as craft groups, readers groups, storytimes and digital sessions.

The mobile library will be open five days a week in four different locations, and each stop will be for a full day and a half day on Saturday.

It will stop in the same place on the same day every week and the timetable includes Ethel Ward Playing Field on Mondays, from 9.30am to 6.30pm; Haxby Memorial Hall on Tuesdays, from 9.30am to 5pm; Wigginton Recreation Hall on Wednesdays, from 9.30am to 5pm; and Oaken Grove Community Centre on Fridays, from 9.30am to 5pm and Saturdays, from 9.30am to 12.30pm.