WORK has started on redeveloping Whitby's town centre bus station. When the work, due to last eight months, is completed the station will have four new bus bays, toilets, shelters and a covered walkway. John Fort, North Yorkshire County Council's cabinet member for transport, said while there would inevitably be some disruption during the construction work, he hoped people would be patient because the station was a much-needed facility for the town.

CHARITY BOOST: An art exhibition held during last weekend's Richmond Festival may have raised about £1,000 for Richmondshire Alzheimer's Society. Although cash is still being counted, Pam Crawford, branch coordinator, said the event had been a success. The exhibition, at the town hall, was closed by the town Mayor, Councillor Stuart Parsons, who thanked the artists who had donated 20 per cent of the sale of their paintings to the charity.

GIMME GIMME: Richmond Cricket Club will host Abba Fever, the award-winning tribute band, at its Hurgill Road site on Saturday, July 6, from 8pm. Tickets are £7.50 for members (guests £8), with proceeds going to club funds. For tickets and details, contact (01748) 824573 or 826122.

SCHOOL FETE: The Friends of Crakehall School will hold their annual summer school fete on Saturday, from 12.30pm.

STEPPING UP: The new president of Thirsk Rotary Club is Walter Gaunt, director of a plumbing and building business. The change took place at the Lord Nelson Hotel, the chain of office being handed over by retiring president David Sellars. Terry Brimelow was appointed president-elect.

GARDENS INSIGHT: At least 15 gardens will be open to the public at Thoralby, in Wensleydale, on Sunday. The open garden day, organised by the village hall, runs from 1pm to 5pm, and admission is £2. Members of the local WI will serve teas in the village hall.

DRIVING HOME: The Northallerton branch of the Institute of Advanced Motorists returns to base for its July meeting. Members have visited the Swaledale Fell Rescue team's headquarters at Catterick Garrison and RAF Leeming over the past few weeks, but will meet at The Lodge, Leeming Bar, as normal at 7.30pm, on July 10. New members are welcome. Further details about the club are available by telephoning (01748) 823288.