Ripon historian Maurice Taylor and his wife, Dorothy, were among volunteer guides at Fountains Abbey who have been rewarded for their service.

Joy Calvert, who has also been an organist at St Mary's Church on the estate for 20 years, was among the recipients of awards presented by the National Trust's area manager, Nicky Grace. Anyone interested in joining them as a helper at the World Heritage site can contact the trust on (01765) 643172.

GROUND FORCE: A mini-garden opens in Scarborough next week, thanks to the work of a team from the borough council's parks department. An overgrown patch of shrubs and trees on Manor Road has been cut back and given a facelift, with new steps linking the footpath with the nearby railway, while climbing plants and rustic fencing improve the look of the area. A formal launch is planned this morning.

CAROL CONCERT: As many as 300 doctors and nurses will be in full voice as the North and East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire Health Authority hosts an annual charity carol concert at York Minster. Choirs from hospitals across the region will take part tomorrow, with money going to Snappy, which raises cash for children with special needs

PLAY ON: Youngsters from Harrogate Youth Theatre are on stage tonight with a production which tells the tale of a police investigation into a bar which goes up in flames. Bar Humbug is a comedy with a festive theme, which starts in The Studio Theatre at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £4 and are available by calling the box office on (01423) 502116.

CHRISTMAS SALE: A Christmas sale takes place in Stokesley Town Hall on Saturday, between 10am and 4pm. Proceeds will go to the town hall restoration fund and to the East Cleveland Lourdes group.