A 20-year-old man was fighting for his life last night after his car span out of control and struck a tree on the B1228 York road, near Elvington.

The driver, thought to be from the York area, was trapped in his Nissan Primera for more than 30 minutes before firefighters could rescue him. He was taken to Leeds General Infirmary where his condition was said to be critical. Witnesses are asked to call (01904) 669727.

SCHOOL SAFETY: A "schools aware" traffic scheme is being created near three schools in Ripon, where there is traffic gridlock during the school run. Following concerns about pupils' safety, North Yorkshire County Council has tabled a scheme for improved signs, better flashing lights and coloured sections of road. The scheme will be put into operation near the Church Lane, Trinity Lane, Blossomgate, Kirkby Road crossroads to cover Holy Trinity Junior School, St Wilfrid's RC Primary School and Holy Trinity Junior School.

PLAQUE POSITION: A plaque marking Prince Charles' visit to Ripon in October, when he was made a freeman of the city, could have been put in a more prominent place, say local councillors. But although some members of Ripon City Council are unhappy with its position outside the town hall, they have decided not to press Harrogate Borough Council for its relocation, said a city council official.

BRASS BAND: The Rowntree Brass Band will perform at the Galtres Centre, in Easingwold, next Saturday, at 7.30pm. In their centenary year, the band has won many trophies and their selection of music on the night is designed to appeal to everyone. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for children, and are available at the door, or by calling (01347) 822472.

CHURCH ROCKS: Starbeck Methodist Church will echo to the sounds of modern music when it hosts a Christian rock concert this evening. The Coastal Dune show starts at 7.30pm with tickets available at the door.

ORCHESTRA SHOW: Ripon Cathedral hosts one of ten performances by the Western Australia Youth Orchestra tomorrow, from 7.30pm. For details, call (01756) 602856 or (01539) 621938.

NORWAY BOUND: York artist Paul Calvert has donated a stained glass window which he created in memory of the September 11 terrorist attacks in the US to firefighters in Norway. It was originally displayed in York Minster.