MEMBERS of Ryedale District Council have voted overwhelmingly against proposals for a Yorkshire Assembly.

In July the Government unveiled its White Paper on devolution of power to the regions and has promised to give Yorkshire residents the chance to decide for themselves at a referendum.

But the plans could lead to Ryedale District Council becoming part of a larger, middle tier of government, with the assembly and parish councillors taking on more responsibility.

Councillor Keith Knaggs said: "There is no evidence it will provide better, more cost-effective local government and improved services. It will take decision making away from local communities and offers no justification for the disruption created by yet another local government reorganisation."

OFFICE BLOCK: A new office block could replace portable buildings at Gatherley Road, Brompton-on-Swale, near Richmond. Officers have recommended approval of planning permission for the two-storey block to accommodate York House Construction, which currently operates from portable offices next to the Hambleton Steel buildings. The report says that subject to better landscaping and screening, permission should be granted.

AID STALL: Christian Aid is having a white elephant stall at the car boot sale in Bedale Hall park on Saturday, September 7. Items for the stall can be left at 11 Emgate, Bedale, up to and including Friday, September 6.

LOCAL CRAFTS: There will be an exhibition of art and craft in St Peter's church, Croft, on Saturday and Sunday, September 7th and 8th, between 2pm and 5pm.

CANCER BOOST: A treasure hunt held by the Skipton Building Society, in Bedale, has raised £135 for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

TREASURE HUNT: Trevor Smith was the winner of a treasure hunt run by the Bedale branch of the Skipton Building Society. He chose a square, numbered 19, and won a shopping voucher. The £135 proceeds from the treasure hunt will go to the Bedale branch of Yorkshire Cancer Research following two further fund raising events starting next week.

COTTAGE PLAN: Planners say that converting a detached garage into a holiday cottage suitable for the disabled in what has been described as a delightful hamlet, would contribute to the local economy. Councillors are being recommeded to approve the scheme opposite Lilac Cottage Youth Hostel at Ellingstring, near Masham when they meet in Ripon on Tuesday.

BUILDING OPPOSED: Outline plans to build a detached home in a village garden should be turned down because it would have a detrimental impact on the character and appearance of a Ripon village, say planning officers. They will recommend that members of Ripon area planning committee of Harrogate Borough Council turn down the application by Mr and Mrs S K Jameson for the proposed property in Low Gate Lane, Sawley, at their meeting on Tuesday.