Bid to draw younger people

TWO North Yorkshire authorities have agreed that more should be done to attract younger people to the Dales. A detailed report by an agency which helps to promote the region has suggested the majority of those who visit the national park are over 45. Research by the Yorkshire Dales Joint Promotion Initiative indicates that just 20 per cent of tourists are in their teens, 20s or 30s. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and Richmondshire District Council have suggested more initiatives should be launched to help redress the balance. More weather-proof attractions for families and the promotion of opportunities for energetic outdoor activities, other than walking, were among the ideas suggested.

BUILDINGS PLAN: The Marquis of Normanby is seeking planning approval to convert redundant buildings on his estate at Sandsend, near Whitby, into two shops and a workshop. The plan for the buildings, previously used for storage and public toilets at East Row Beck, has been welcomed by Scarborough Borough Council planners, who say in a report to councillors that it will renovate an attractive range of traditional buildings in a prominent spot.

HELP WANTED: The Pendragon Trust is looking for a volunteer to help with clerical and administrative work for a few hours each week, working from home or the office in Bedale. Contact Anne Barnett on (01609) 770953 or David Kerfoot on (01677) 424881 for further details.

NEW FACE: The new manager of Hambleton and Richmond Carers is Lynn Webb-Thorius, who has a wide variety of experience in the voluntary and statutory sectors.

OPEN DAY: A Living Options open day will be held at the Mencap Centre, Northallerton, on May 10 from 9.30am to 2.30pm. Parents, carers and people with learning disabilities are invited to attend. For details contact Sue Lear on (01609) 778894.

SPRING CONCERT: The Leeds-based Savoy Singers will give a concert, Spring Serenade, at the Galtres Centre, Easingwold, on April 6 at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 for children.

ANNUAL MEETING: Caroline Dale, of York People First, will be the guest speaker at the annual meeting of the Northallerton and Dales Mencap Society, at the Mencap Centre, Northallerton, on April 15, at 7.30pm.