A RYEDALE attraction is welcoming local residents for free this weekend.

Scampston Walled Garden is hosting its annual community weekend on April 16 and 17 following the popularity of last year's event.

All those with proof of a Ryedale postcode will be able to explore both the Walled Garden and parkland at no charge.

The community weekend also marks the opening of a family photography competition with entrants invited to take pictures of their favourite views at Scampston, or of the wildlife that lives there.

Winning photos will be awarded with an annual family membership to Scampston.

Chris Legard, owner of Scampston Hall, said: “We are delighted to be opening the garden gates once more for local residents. It is always a really fun and family-orientated weekend.”

“It is a particularly special year for us here at Scampston as we celebrate 300 years of Capability Brown – the landscape architect who changed the face of Britain.

"Scampston’s parkland was designed by Capability Brown, so this is a real opportunity for people to explore the landscape and learn a little bit more about it."

He added: "There will be an abundance of family friendly events and trails here throughout the summer season and one of these will be the family photography competition with entries opening on April 16.

"Budding photographers, young and old, are invited to submit their pictures of the landscape here. We hope that it will help people engage with, and be inspired by, the Capability Brown landscape.”

Proof of address, such as a utility bill, will be required for free entry. Visitors will need to present this in the ticket office on arrival.

Submissions for the photographic competition can be sent to info@scampston.co.uk. Alternatively, they can be shared through social media: on Twitter, @ScampstonHall, or on Facebook, Scampston Hall & Walled Garden, with the hashtag #CaptureCapability.

Opening hours for the gardens and the Garden Café are Tuesday – Sunday, and Bank Holiday Mondays, 10am – 5pm. The Hall will open for guided afternoon tours from the May 29 to the July 31.

For more information, contact info@scampston.co.uk or call 01944 759 111