Success for sanctuary

SLOWWORMS are thriving in a tiny sanctuary created out of a former railway coal yard. The Old Barber Nature Reserve, at Bilton Junction, Harrogate, has been named by local conservationists after the coal-carrying rail line which ran from Bilton to the gas works at New Park between 1907 and 1956. More than a tonne of rubbish was removed from the site, which is less than 100 yards long and just eight yards wide. Now, a colony of slowworms, legless lizards up to 10in long, is thriving. There is no public access to the reserve, but school parties will be encouraged to visit as Bilton Conservation Group prepares to protect the site while houses are built nearby.

WEEKEND WALK: Richmond Ramblers will be heading for the hills above Hawes this weekend. Anyone who would like to join the town's branch of the Ramblers' Association on a nine-mile walk around Burtersett and Whether Fell needs to be at Richmond's Nun's Close car park by 9am tomorrow. More information is available by telephoning (01748) 811207.

ROCK ON: Scarborough hosts the Earth Alert Festival of Geology later this year. The national event aims to encourage both amateur and professionals interested in life sciences to share their enthusiasm for their subject, with a Discovery Room laid on for children. Lectures, exhibitions, walks and expeditions are also part of the programme, which begins on August 24.

RUBBISH REVAMP: York residents have been warned that the city council has closed the Beckfield household waste recycling plant due to operational difficulties. The nearest alternative is located at Foss Islands Road and is open between 8am and 8pm from Monday to Saturday and between 8am and 4pm on Sundays.

DOMINO DRIVE: Hudswell Village Hall hosts a domino drive next week. Doors open at 7.30pm on Friday. Admission is £1, including light refreshments. All proceeds will go towards the village hall.

GARDEN TALK: Sue Hopps, of Sowerby, will lead a talk on gardening at Leeming Village Hall next week. The doors open at 7.30pm on Thursday. Further details are available by telephoning (01677) 422301