RYEDALE will be the hub for this year’s Yorkshire Day on August 1.

And the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu, will be adding his support to the traditional civic procession when he takes part in a special service at St Michael’s Church in Malton.

Ryedale District Council was asked by the Yorkshire Society to host this year’s civic procession, which will involve up to 200 people walking from Ryedale House to St Michael’s Church in the Market Place.

Organisers say the day will be an opportunity for local businesses and other organisations to run events on the day, which is now in its 25th year, and a variety of events have already been organised in different locations including Pickering and Castle Howard.

Coun Di Keal, who is the new chairman of Ryedale District Council, said: “We are delighted and honoured that Ryedale will be hosting this year’s Yorkshire Day and that the Archbishop of York has added his support.

“Civic leaders from throughout Yorkshire will be coming to Malton for the special service, but we will be using the day to showcase the whole of what Ryedale has to offer and this is a wonderful opportunity for the area.”

Norton Bakery is producing a Yorkshire Day biscuit and The Shed will be providing entertainment.

Some months ago, a row blew up over whether the day should centre around Malton or Pickering.

But Mrs Keal stressed: “We feel we have everyone on board. Everyone across Yorkshire can join in and do their own things and they have been doing that for some years. Ryedale may be hosting the civic event in Malton this year but everyone who wants to get involved can do so and we want them to become involved.”