TOURIST information centres are joining together to open branches of Cards For Good Causes Christmas shops this week.

The centres in Thirsk and Northallerton are part of a national network of shops which are now stocking cards which will benefit more than 25 major charities. By being able to keep operating costs low, charities can receive at least 81p from every £1 the card sells. Last year, they shared more than £5 million.

This is the fifth year Hambleton has taken part in the project - which raised more than £6,000 for the charities last year.

The Thirsk shop, in the Market Place, is open between Monday and Saturday, from 10am until 4pm.

The Northallerton shop, in the Applegarth car park, is open from 10am until 4pm Monday to Friday and from 10am until 1pm on Saturdays.