Nidderdale Festival, which runs from today until July 7, includes, music, drama, arts, photography, sports, walks and lectures.

Festival chairman Chris Henderson says the event has its own style with a blend of artistic and cultural events for locals and visitors. Many events are based on Pateley Bridge but others spread around the dale. A festival parade is being held in Pateley High Street on Sunday, led by Harrogate's Tewit Youth Band, at 2pm, and there will be street entertainment.

School gala: A summer gala is taking place in the grounds of Sutton-on-the-Forest primary school, near Easingwold, on Sunday, from noon.

Gardening quiz: A gardeners' question time in aid of Teesside Hospice is taking place at Willow Cottage, 67 Levenside, Stokesley, on Sunday, June 30, from 2pm to 4pm. Tickets cost £2 and are available from Browns Newsagents and Cameo Gift Shop, Stokesley, or by telephoning (01642) 355866.

Show time: Shakespeare comedy, A Midsummer Night's Dream, is being performed by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company at Mount Grace Priory, near Osmotherley, on Sunday, June 30, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 adults, £8 concessions, and can be booked on (01609) 883494.

Line dance: Double AA American Linedance will be holding a country and western night at the Civil Service Club, Catterick Garrison, on Saturday, June 29, from 8pm. For ticket information contact (01748) 833844.

PLANS REJECTED: Plans to build an extension to The Granary, Oakdale Farm, Penny Pot Lane, Harrogate, have been refused by the town's planners. They say its size and design would harm the character and appearance of the existing building and quality of Oak Beck Valley Special Landscape Area.

HALL decision: The Duchy of Lancaster has been granted permission by Harrogate planning officials to demolish a store and gymnasium cum hall at Belmont-Birklands School, Kent Road, Harrogate.