A RELIGIOUS group is celebrating its 100th anniversary by forming a new branch in North Yorkshire.

The Catenian Association is a worldwide circle of Catholic men, who believe in strengthening family life through friendship and faith.

Formed in Manchester in 1908, the group has a membership of more than 10,000 men around the world.

A new circle is being inaugurated in the county, covering the Hambleton and Richmondshire districts.

Local men are being invited to join the Hambleton group, which will hold its first meeting on May 31.

A celebration service to mark the occasion will be led by the Rt Rev Terence Drainey, the new Bishop of Middlesbrough, at St. Francis Xavier Church, Richmond.

This will be followed by the inauguration ceremony at Scotch Corner Hotel, presided over by Catenian president, David Taylor.

Catenians from across the country will join new members and their wives and guests for dinner.

Robert Hughes, president of the Hambleton branch, said: "This is a very exciting event, both for the Catenian Association and for the districts of Richmondshire and Hambleton.

"I am proud to have been asked to lead this circle into the second century of the association and to have the opportunity to help direct it in its development, so that it will grow and prosper."

For more information, call Vincent McTaff on 01207-271451.