TOWN councillors in Pickering are divided over what shape local government should take in Ryedale if North Yorkshire agrees to a regional assembly for Yorkshire and the Humber.

They are to hold a meeting to discuss the issue in the next three weeks. The Town Mayor, Councillor Judy Dixon, said she was against a single, county-wide authority based at Northallerton, and preferred instead a smaller unitary body.

HOSPITAL PROJECT: A redevelopment programme is under way at the outpatients and endoscopy unit at Harrogate District Hospital. The project is scheduled to be completed by September next year.

Centre agreed: Councillors in Ryedale have given their backing to plans to build a visitor centre at Scampston Hall, near Malton. The centre will include a caf.

EDUCATING RITA: The Easingwold Players will be presenting Educating Rita, by Willy Russell, on Friday and Saturday, August 29 and 30, at the Galtres Centre, in Easingwold. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for children and are available from the box office on (01347) 822472 or at the door.

GRADUATION FLYPAST: The Royal Air Force is planning a formation flypast of nine Tucano aircraft next Friday, when student pilots from Linton-on-Ouse celebrate their graduation. The flypast will take place between 9am and noon. The station viewing area on the Linton to Aldwark road will be open to the public.

YOUNG FUN: A children's activity day is being held at Knaresborough Castle and Museum today. Artist Jane Carlisle will be working with the youngsters, demonstrating a range of collage techniques and inviting the children join in.