A TOWN council has lodged objections to plans for almost 200 new homes to be built in Knaresborough.

Outline planning permission has already been given for 186 properties to be built on a former nursery site in Halfpenny Lane. But when Knaresborough Town Council scrutinised amended plans members were unhappy about some of the latest elements. They decided to lodge an objection to planners at Harrogate Borough Council over three-storey development, saying it would be out of character with the area.

WIN A CAMERA: The Bedale Branch of the Skipton Building Society would like to hear from anyone with interesting facts about their local area and is offering the chance to win a Sony digital camera worth £300. The competition marks the launch of the Society's sponsorship of UKVillages.co.uk, a website dedicated to providing information about towns and villages nationwide. To enter the competition, visit the branch at 17 North End for an application form.

MIDWIFERY PLACES: There are still a number of places left on a University of York course for registered nurses wishing to become midwives. Supported in practice by experienced midwives, candidates will travel in North Yorkshire and the East Coast with clinical placements in four maternity units. For information and application details, call Joyce Johnson on (01904) 321314.

TAX MEETING: An informal meeting of ratepayers is held at the Bay Horse, Catterick village, on September 14, at 7.30pm. The meeting is arranged by a group of campaigners, around Richmondshire, who are protesting against local and national taxation. For further details call (01748) 811383.