Welcome

With the predicted 'barbecue summer' edging towards a wet August it might be wise to keep your waterproofs close at hand. There's still plenty on locally and as long as you're prepared for the weather it shouldn't dampen your day too much. But just in case the rain is set in, here are a couple of gems...

If you're at the coast with kids in tow and the heavens open, I'd highly recommend the Whitby Wizard on the town's West Cliff. I visited it for the first time last week - and what a find! Our children, age three and six had a great time, especially the older one who loved the hands-on science experiments. Grab a coffee and biscuit and leave the kids to it.


The staged version of The Railway Children has returned to the National Railway Museum. I took my son, then five, to see it last year and it captivated us for the entire performance. It's on throughout the summer holidays.

Young dinosaur fans will enjoy the Family Fun Days organised by Scarborough Museums Trust. The next one is on Monday, August 3rd at Filey Museum and Tuesday, August 4th at Woodend (next to the Art Gallery) in Scarborough. Or join local experts on an organised Fossil Hunt. The next one is at Boggle Hole, on Thursday, August 6th from 10am-12noon. Meet on the slipway opposite the Youth Hostel. There's one the next day, Friday, August 7th at Speeton Sands. Meet at Reighton Sands Holiday Park car part by the shops. Otherwise there's a wheelchair and pushchair-friendly walk with Peter Robinson for an introduction to the geology of Scarborough's South Bay, on Tuesday, August 4th at 10.30am-12noon. Meet outside the main entrance to the Rotunda Museum.

Not far away is the Muston Scarecrow Festival continues until this Sunday, August 2nd. Park up and follow the trail.


There's also lots going on for National Parks Week including a Roman Re-enactment with the Legio VIII Augusta MGV making camp at Cawthorn, nr Pickering, this Sunday, August 2nd.

An event that should tire the kids out is the Multi-Taster Day at Malton and Norton Rugby Club. Kids can have a go at all sorts of sporty activities and find out about local clubs and groups. This kicks off at 2pm on Saturday, August 1st ending with a barbecue at 5pm. For more info call 0845 034 9586.