A scheme to speed up road improvements at one of Ripon's most notorious junctions has been backed

by councillors following a near 700-strong petition from residents.

People using the Coltsgate Hill-North Street junction presented their petition to North Yorkshire County Council. Because Coltsgate Hill is so narrow vehicles sometimes have to mount the footpaths, causing concern for parents of youngsters walking to local schools.

LORD MAYOR: The new Lord Mayor of York is former teacher Charles Hall. He will take office at today's annual meeting of the council. The new sheriff of the city is Keith Orrell, who is also a former teacher.

CROSSING CLOSES: The level crossing at Heslerton Station, in West Heslerton, has been closed temporarily. The crossing will remain closed until June 2.

COMMUNITY HALL: The York village of Heworth Without has been awarded more than £210,000 by the National Lottery's Community Fund towards the building and furnishing of a new community centre.

DIABETICS GATHER: The next meeting of Northallerton and District Voluntary Group of Diabetes UK will be at the Friarage Hospital next Thursday, at 7.30pm. All adults with diabetes, their partners, carers, and the parents of children with diabetes, are welcome.

BOTANICAL ART: Visitors to Guisborough Forest and Walkway can study botanical illustration under the tuition of Colin Swinton on Wednesday, June 11, from 10am to 4pm. Places are limited and cost £5 each. To book, call (01287) 631132.

GIRLS CRICKET: Redcar and Cleveland Council's sports development team is giving girls under 14 the chance to learn to play cricket. The four one-hour Tuesday afternoon sessions from 3.30pm to 4.30pm, will start at Bydales School, Marske, on Tuesday, June 3. The fee is £1 a session. Call (01642) 444338 for details.