Ponies missing from paddock

Richmond police are trying to trace two ponies that went missing from their paddock. The Shetland ponies were last seen in the field near the owner's home in Gayles, on Tuesday. When Mrs Burchnall went to feed them the next morning the gate was open and the ponies were missing. She believes that they could have been stolen. Anyone with any information should contact Richmond police on (01748) 823055 or Mrs Burchnall on (01833) 621191.

Museums' honour: Four Hambleton tourist attractions have received national registered museum status. The award, which allows better access to Government grants, has gone to the World of James Herriot Centre, in Thirsk, Bedale Museum, Shandy Hall, near Easingwold, and the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum, in Great Ayton.

Blooming great: The annual spring plant fair at Newby Hall, near Ripon, is taking place on Sunday. Several specialist growers and nurseries will be exhibiting at the event.

Coffee morning: A coffee morning will be held in Pickering Memorial Hall tomorrow, from 10am to 11.30am to raise funds for Oxfam. There will be cakes, books and plant stalls.

Funding boost: Hambleton's four local development agencies are to receive increased funding from the district council. The cash will secure their assistance with community planning in each of the market towns. Council cabinet members agreed to double the grant to £2,000 each for the agencies in Northallerton, Stokesley, Thirsk and Easingwold.

Landlord dies Jimmy Caskie, one of Scarborough's best known landlords, has died at the age of 86. He ran the Talbot Hotel in Queen Street for 20 years after previously having a hotel in the resort. His death comes a year after that of his wife, Mary.

Jubilee meeting. A meeting to discuss celebrations for the Queen's Golden Jubilee is being held on Tuesday, at 7.30pm in the Muker Institute