STRENGTHENING work on a bridge in Arkengarthdale has started and is due to be completed by Christmas.

Beck Crooks bridge, on the Reeth to Tan Hill road, has a 17-tonne capacity but that restriction will be removed when work is finished. A spokesman for North Yorkshire County Council said most of the work will be carried out between 10pm and 7am so the road can remain open during the day. Minor repairs will follow in the new year.

ARTS PLAN: The former Pentecostal Church, in Eastborough, Scarborough, will become an arts centre if borough council planners give the go-ahead. The scheme, by Nick Dudding and Kevin Gallagher, will include an entertainment complex with a cinema, and venue for classical, folk and jazz music.

ON TRACK: Talks on plans for the future of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway have taken place. Dr Paul Salveson, director of the Esk Valley Railway Development Company, said it was hoping to increase usage of existing services on the line between Whitby and Middlesbrough, and to work with the National Park authority.

EDUCATION CASH: North Yorkshire County Council is to spend £198,000 to raise achievement in education in Scarborough and improve the skills pupils will need in later life. Intensive support is to be provided for pupils, with teachers being given training to help improve writing skills in primary schools. Secondary school teachers will visit other schools to pool expertise, a council spokesman said.

CHRISTMAS FAIR: A Christmas fair is being held in Stokesley Town Hall between 10am and 3pm on Saturday. There will be refreshments, stalls, a tombola and raffle, with a magic show for children from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Proceeds go to Teesside Hospice.

COUNTRY NIGHT: A country and western night takes place at East Layton Quoits and Social Club on Saturday, starting at 8.30pm. Tickets are £3 at the door and include refreshments.