RYEDALE Folk Museum is throwing open its doors for free this weekend as its director celebrates five years in the post.

Since Mike Benson took over as head of the Hutton-le-Hole attraction, its annual turnover has soared from £130,000 to £400,000, and the number of visitors has increased to more than 40,000.

To thank volunteers, staff and visitors, Mr Benson will hold a Christmas celebration with plays, a performance by the choir of Gillamoor Primary School, craft demonstrations and other activities at the centre.

He said: “We could not have achieved our success without the support of so many people, acting as volunteers and coming as visitors and this weekend will give us an opportunity to thank them – and get our Christmas celebrations off to a great start.”