Shops scheme is scrapped

A MULTI-MILLION pound scheme to demolish Scarborough's derelict Royal Opera House and build shops and a large car park on the site has been scrapped. Scarborough Borough Council had been in talks with St James Investment Group, a company based in the Virgin Islands, and a Nottinghamshire development company, Ramparts, to secure a deal which would have included the council-owned car park in North Street. The council's head of planning services, Gordon Somerville said the authority was now seeking other ways of having the prime site in St Thomas Street and North Street, developed.

Church threatened: A landmark church in a North Yorkshire village is facing redundancy because of rising costs and a declining congregation. The 19th Century St Andrew's Church, at East Heslerton, once had congregations of 300, but now they are a mere a handful, said treasurer John Crossland. "It costs £5,000 a year just to open the church" he said. The York Diocesan authorities say the Church Conservation Trust has offered to take over the building.

REAL THING: Authenticity has been assured at Scarborough's All at Sea exhibition this summer. The show, which opens at The Rotunda on Saturday, June 1, will include deckchairs, crockery, a hot plate and kettles from the old beach chalets. Staff would be happy to hear from anyone with other items with historical value, which could be included. For more details, call (01723) 232573.

FISHING TRIP: A "fishing" expedition visits North Yorkshire's Sewerby Hall on Thursday, to trawl the archives for pictures for an exhibition in Scarborough. Fisherman's Choice opens at the seaside resort's art gallery in June - and five fishermen who sail from the harbour have been invited to help choose works to show.

COFFEE MORNING: The Methodist chapel in Melsonby, near Richmond, opens its doors for a coffee morning on Saturday, from 10am to noon.

BEAR SHOW: A teddy bear exhibition will be held on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31 at Minskip Village Hall. The award-winning exhibition, open from 10am to 4pm, will include competitions and refreshments.