IN ANOTHER bid likely to boost visitor numbers to the Dales after the foot and mouth crisis, the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes will open to the public for free on this weekend, September 8/9th.

The free weekend is a part of the Civic Trust's 'Heritage Open Days', England's unofficial festival of culture and architecture, where hundreds of the country's finest and most fascinating buildings and museums open their doors to the public without charge.

The Dales Countryside Museum - managed by the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority - tells the story of the people and the landscape of the Yorkshire Dales, building the link between the history of the area and the area's magnificent landscape.

Entrance to the museum normally costs "3 for adults, "2 for children and OAPs or "8 for a family ticket, but over the one weekend entrance to the museum, between 10am and 5pm, will be free.

Museum manager Fiona Rosher says: "By taking part in the 'Heritage Open Days' we are inviting the public to come out to the Dales and experience one of the area's finest indoor attractions and celebrate the area's heritage.

"There are absolutely no catches. This is a genuine free weekend where anyone can visit the Museum and pay nothing."

Until 28 October, the museum will also be hosting a major exhibition, titled "From Fleece to Felt." On show will be a full range of felt work, which has used both traditional and contemporary techniques, by some of the top felt artists in the north of England.

To compliment the exhibition the contributing artists will be leading workshops on 2 September, 22 September, 18 October and 22 October. For more information or to book onto one of the workshops call 01969 667450.