A CITY centre development of 93 flats is expected to be approved by councillors today.

Housing group Cala Homes plans to build the apartments in three and four-storey blocks on the old Heppell and Smallpage site, at the corner of Foss Islands Road and Lawrence Street, York. The project would mean the demolition of the shell of a building close to the junction of the two streets. The building had to be made safe by City of York Council last year when parts of it started collapsing. Access roads would be built from Elvington Terrace and Leake Street.

GARDEN SHOW: The 42nd annual allotment show to be staged at the Sun Pavilion, in Harrogate's Valley Gardens, takes place on Sunday, August 18, from 11am to 4.30pm. The event includes various stalls and displays and will raise money for Horticap and Harrogate and District Women's Aid.

CHARITY GOLF: The Friends of the Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, are staging their eighth charity golf tournament at Romanby Golf Club on Tuesday, September 10. Teams of four are invited to enter, and forms are available by calling (01609) 771284.

CATS ESCAPE: Three cats escaped a fire in a flat in Richmond yesterday. Their owner returned from a shopping trip just in time to save them from the smoke-logged premises on Castle Hill. Firefighters extinguished a smouldering mattress in the property above the old Georgian Hair Salon. The cause was still being investigated last night.

JUBILEE PARTY: Sessay Ladies' Darts Club is holding its silver jubilee celebrations tomorrow in the village hall, starting at 8.30pm. Past and present members are invited to attend. More details are available from Heather Corner on (01845) 501381.

DESIGN JOB: A poster competition is being held by Thirsk, Sowerby and District Volunteer Bureau. Children are being encouraged to produce an A4 size poster showing ways in which members of the community can help each other. The winner will be unveiled at a fair at Thirsk town hall on Saturday, September 14.