ABOUT 160 guests had to be evacuated from Scarborough's Royal Hotel twice in two hours early on Sunday morning because of a faulty alarm system.

Joan Turner, head of English Rose Hotels which owns the hotel, said the first alarm went off at about 6am and everyone was evacuated from the building. After firefighters carried out an extensive investigation, they were given the all-clear to return. However, the alarm went off again and another evacuation had to take place.

FLYING LESSON: Children visiting the St Martin's Ampleforth School open day this weekend can learn to make a kite. Malcolm Goodman will be leading workshops between 1pm and 4pm to give visitors a glimpse of life at the school, at Gilling Castle, near York. For details, call (01439) 766600, or visit the school website at www.stmartins.ampleforth. org.uk

SOCIETY AWARD: A pamphlet to attract members to the Allertonshire Civic Society has won third prize in a national competition. The pamphlet resulted in a 24 per cent increase in membership. The award was made by The National Civic Trust.

LONG RUN: Veteran runner Carolyn Cox, of Strensall, York, has confirmed she will be running in next month's London Marathon to raise money for the RSCPA. The money will go towards an animal shelter at the Landing Lane centre, where sponsorship forms are now available.

BALLET DATE: Ballet fans will be heading for Harrogate's International Centre this weekend, where the Moscow Ballet will be performing Don Quixote. Tickets are priced from £17.50 and are available from the box office on (01423) 537230.