ARTS charity Settle Stories, has launched a membership drive in an effort to ride out the financial impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.

The charity, which was set up more than 10 years ago, suffered financially when its flagship Yorkshire Festival of Story moved online last year because of Covid restrictions.

During the festival, the generous support of donations from attendees helped the charity raise vital funds to recover the costs of loss in income from ticket sales and some sponsorship income.

Now, with donations and online reach increasing, the charity has launched a membership scheme, which it hopes will raise funds and help grassroots support.

For £10 per month, members will receive exclusive access to Settle Stories events along with a free gift in the post. The charity hopes this will give supporters a meaningful way to support its work and be part of its mission to change lives through story.

Charles Tyrer, Settle Stories executive director, said: “Over the past year, something incredible has happened. Hundreds of our supporters have dug deep and donated to support us and in turn local artists, and Yorkshire Festival of Story. This generosity has inspired us to create a new way for people to join us as members. The response has already been amazing.”

Over the last year, the charity has provided free virtual storytelling to more than 42,400 children to Craven and beyond.

To find out more and become a member of Settle Stories, go to www.settlestories.org.uk/donate.

The charity has also delivered 390 ‘Story Packs’ for older Settle residents and to children to stay connected during Covid-19, and reached a further 12,252 people with online workshops and events.