THIS paper has devoted many column inches to the recent turbulent history of Yarm Town Council. It certainly has been one of the more entertaining local councils we have reported on - to the neutral observer, at least.

Spectator was delighted to hear this week that, even in a period of relative town hall tranquility, Yarm continues to exhibit its quirky nature.

Amid much debate at its most recent meeting about whether it was a good idea - or even ethically sound - to invite members of other religions to the town's Christmas festivities, whether there should be a three-line whip on councillors to attend the festive lights switch-on, and whether John Wesley was a vandal for scratching hymn words on a window 250 years ago, the subject of an 80ft-plus mobile phone mast at picturesque Egglescliffe Village came up. Just the sort of bread-and-butter issue for Yarm's worthies to get their teeth into.

Well, our man at the meeting tells Spectator the plan caused little concern or comment, although councillors "hoped it would not spoil the view".

Bad PR

Last week's correspondent who witnessed the seemingly unthinking behaviour of a huntsman near Northallerton is not alone.

The ink was barely dry on last week's issue when Spectator was travelling south on the A167 between Northallerton and Thirsk.

Just after the turn-off to Thornton-le-Moor, traffic was halted as the Hurworth hunt crossed the road to enter fields near Crosby Grange.

About a dozen or so vehicles waiting patiently for a couple of minutes while the hounds, horses and riders made their way across the highway. Sadly, when the last huntsman was across, not even the slightest acknowledgement of the admittedly minor incovenience the hunt had caused was offered.

Note to Santa

DEAR Santa: will you please send an art student (sorry, elf) to Darlington to paint a jolly picture on the boarded up frontage of the late lamented Dressers shop. When operating, the shop always had a pretty Christmas scene and it seems such a shame to hold the High Row Christmas markets beside the presently dull facade.

Bring plenty of red and white paint, the boarding is blue and will suffice for the sky. It will cheer us up no end. Regards, Spectator.