SHANDY Hall, Coxwold, home of the Victorian author Laurence Sterne, will be the setting for a special Christmas festivity for children.

Organised by the Laurence Sterne Trust and the North York Moors National Park Authority, children will be entertained at an evening of stories in the atmospheric 580-year-old house.

The free event is being held for children and families on Thursday and Friday, December 13 and 14, 6pm-7.30pm.

The event is part of the National Park’s Lime and Ice project which was awarded nearly £500,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund four years ago, to deliver new access, interpretation and conservation initiatives.

Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first served basis, and booking is essential by phoning Nick Lishman on 01439 772700.