A project which helps children with special needs has been saved from closure thanks to a £75,000 National Lottery grant.

The Pre-School Learning Alliance at Allatt House, in Scarborough, will now be able to continue to train and place volunteers in pre-schools to support children who have special needs. Co-ordinator Sally Walker said: "It does mean we can afford to keep going. We would have had to close in June if we hadn't got the money."

Police award: A Scarborough man who stopped his friend leaping from a bridge to his death has been honoured by the police. Jonathan Turner, of St Leaonrad's Crescent, Scarborough, helped rescue the unnamed man, who was hanging upside down on the parapet of the Glen Bridge, in the town's Northstead Manor Drive. Two police officers also helped rescue the man and Mr Turner has now received a certificate of appreciation from North Yorkshire's Chief Constable, David Kenworthy.

FORUM MEETING: Wensley-dale parish forum meets on Wednesday at the Dales Countryside Museum, Hawes, at 7pm. The meeting is open to people living in parishes in the upper dale. Items for discussion include affordable housing, 24-hour cover at Bainbridge ambulance station, mobile phone masts and access to colleges for students from rural areas. Further details are available from Richmondshire District Council on (01748) 829100.

BAND SEARCH: North-allerton Silver Band is seeking a deputy leader to help out bandmaster Gordon Kaye, who was appointed last year. The post includes some conducting at performances, as well as running practice nights at the band's recently refurbished headquarters in Romanby Road. Anyone interested in helping, or anyone wanting to join the band, is asked to contact band secretary Yvonne Yates, on (01609) 881304, or chairman David Prest, on (01609) 777272.

Minster concert: York Musical Society is giving a concert in the Minster on Saturday, June 8, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets cost between £4.50 and £14, and are available on (01904) 623568 or at the door on the night.

Falconry show: Birds of prey will demonstrate their hunting skills during a display at Helmsley Castle on Sunday, May 5 and Monday, May 6.

Joust cash: The Knights of the Black Phoenix in Northallerton have been given a grant of £4,410 by Awards for All. The group promotes jousting and broadsword activities, and also puts on displays