New contracts should lead to improved bus services around Ripon and Harrogate.

More frequent buses are promised along the routes taken by Harrogate and District Travel's 56 and 57, between Arkendale and Knaresborough, and the 23 service around Markington, Shaw Mills and Bishop Thornton. Arriva has also announced a new hourly through service linking Ripon, Boroughbridge and York.

GARDEN RADIO: Radio North Yorkshire will record its Down to Earth gardening show at Boroughbridge Primary School on Tuesday, May 6, from 7pm to 9.30pm. A panel of experts will answer questions from local people.

RESTAURANT REJECTED: A plan to convert a fishing tackle shop in Sowerby, Thirsk, into a Chinese restaurant has been rejected by Hambleton District Council.

LUNCH CASH: Lent Lunches organised by Churches Together in Northallerton have raised £1,000 for Christian Aid. The lunches were held in the United Reform Church hall.

GLAM ROCK: A glam rock tribute night, featuring Freak Boutique and hits from the 1970s, is to be held at Richmondshire Cricket Club next Saturday, with prizes for the best dressed glam rocker. For tickets call (01748) 824573 or 826122.

CONCERT SUCCESS: A sell-out concert by the Swale Singers at St Matthew's Church in Leyburn raised more than £800 for ShareCare in Richmondshire, which supports carers.