The work of about 100 food, drinks and crafts companies will be showcased at a new festival to be held in Skipton.

The Skipton Local Produce Festival, which has been organised by North Yorkshire County Council, will see products as diverse as organic meats and glazed pottery, cheese, watercolours, ice cream, textiles and farmhouse preserves on show.

The Council is hoping the event, due to take place on October 9 and 10, will help provide a timely boost to the region's rural economy.

All the catering at the event will be locally sourced and TV celebrity chefs are expected to demonstrate how to make the most of Yorkshire ingredients.

More than 5,000 visitors from a 50-mile radius from Skipton are expected to attend the event, which is being supported by Craven Auction Marts.

Councillor Carl Les, North Yorkshire County Council's executive member for economic development, said: "It's encouraging to see quality producers signing up for the festival.

"With the closing date for bookings imminent, we advise other potential exhibitors to stake their claim as soon as possible.

"The county council is committed to ensuring that it makes a real difference to rural communities.

"The free festival programme will be designed as a bible of where the public can buy products, ensuring that sales continue long after the event."

Grassington-based arts and crafts business ArtGarden was one of the first to sign up for the event.

Joint-owner Hannah Chesterman, who has sold her paintings to celebrities including author Bill Bryson, said: "With 5,000 visitors from across the north we've got to be at this event. We're looking at producing some individual pieces in addition to our best-selling lines."

Other companies taking part include: Hambleton Ales, Swaledale Cheese Company, Elisabeth Bailey Pottery, Quay Ingredients, Bracken Hill Fine Foods, and Jane Marsh hand-crafted textiles.