HELMSLEY’S new visitor information point (VIP) is proving a helpful asset for people enjoying their stay in Ryedale.

It opened in April in the Cut Price Bookstore, in Borogate, Helmsley, providing information for local people and visitors to the area.

Free information leaflets are available, as well as maps, guidebooks and postcards. The shop also offers free wi-fi to visitors so they can search visitRyedale.co.uk and find accommodation and check opening times of local attractions.

Anne Wilson, manager of the Cut Price Bookstore, said: “Many of our customers ask about local tourist attractions and things to do, so having the VIP in the shop helps us to point them in the right direction straight away. Helmsley is such a lovely town, we want to share its treasures with all our visitors”

Councillor Linda Cowling, leader of Ryedale District Council, said: “With more and more visitors using the internet to decide what to do when on holiday, often at the last minute or weather dependant, it makes sense for visitor information to be available online as well as in person.”

“Anne and her team are doing a great job for local businesses, promoting Helmsley and Ryedale to our visitors.”

The VIP is open seven days a week, from 9.30am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday, and 11am to 4.30pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

Pickering Tourist Information Centre is still available to answer phone queries on 01751 473791.