FARM workers have been warned to secure their machinery after a spate of thefts from rural businesses.

Police are hunting the owners of a silver Vauxhall Astra, registration H870 DBK, that was seen in Acaster Malbis and Elvington. Two quad bikes, one of which was worth £1,800, and a sheep trailer, were stolen from two separate farms on Monday. The silver car, driven by a fair-haired youth, was seen at both farms and at a third in the Acaster Malbis area, where two chainsaws were stolen.

FUN DAY: Colburn Health and Recreational Centre is holding its gala day on Saturday, August 9, between 11am and 4pm. Attractions include a falconry display, assault course, football competition and face-painting. Places for the car boot sale cost £5 per car and can be booked by calling (01748) 835660.

MODEL SHOW: Ouse Gliding Club, Rufforth, York, is staging the Yorkshire Giant and Jet Model Spectacular on Saturday and Sunday, August 9 and 10. The event will feature large radio-controlled aircraft along with family attractions, a trade show, classic car rally and glider flights. For details, call (01423) 867144.

TOWN DISPLAYS: Two towns will host a display to promote the work of a little-known charity next month. Volunteers from the Doctor Hadwin Trust, which supports the scientific advancement of medicine without testing on animals, will be in Malton library from Monday and then at Norton from August 18.

OPTIONS CONSIDERED: A series of options being considered for the future use of a former stately home have been highlighted in a planning briefing. Grantley Hall, a Grade II-listed building near Ripon, will continue as an adult education centre until March 31 next year. A decision on its future is expected to be made in October.