Warning over bogus callers

BOGUS house callers have struck again in North Yorkshire, prompting police to issue a fresh warning. On Wednesday, a man claiming to be a water board official tricked his way into a house in Aiskew, near Bedale, and stole cash. A man purporting to be from Richmondshire District Council also stole a wallet after conning a resident of West Witton on the same day. A police spokesman said both ploys were becoming increasingly common and that residents should not be afraid to leave callers at the door while they checked identification with employers.

TOOLS STOLEN: An estimated £3,000 worth of property has been stolen from a garage at a house near Gilling West. Intruders got into the property to remove a generator, a large tool trolley and three alloy wheels complete with tyres. Anyone offered similar goods cheaply or in suspicious circumstances is urged to contact police.

CAR TARGETED: Police are investigating after a car, parked in Catterick Garrison, was daubed with red paint. The silver Ford Galaxy was parked in Aisney Road overnight on Wednesday. Any witnesses are asked to contact police in Richmond or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.

BEDE REVEALED: The life of The Venerable Bede will come under the spotlight at the next Richmond Civic Society lecture. Members will meet at the Zetland Christian Community Centre, Victoria Road, at 7.30pm on Friday for the lecture by Dr David Kirby. All are welcome although non-members will be charged a £3 admission fee.

HOE DOWN: Double AA American Line Dance returns to Catterick Garrison next weekend. Brushwood lead the line at the Civil Service Club from 7.30pm on Saturday, March 9, supported by the Double AA Country Disco. Tickets cost £3.50 in advance or £4.50 at the door. More information is available by telephoning (01748) 833844.

WAVE WARNING: Wave dodgers - youngsters who run in and out of waves as they crash over sea walls during stormy weather - have been warned they are risking their lives. Officials at Scarborough spoke out after a number of incidents at the resort.

AUSSIE AIRTIME: The Carlton Lodge Hotel, Helmsley, has been featured on prime-time Australian television as part of a programme produced to encourage people to travel again after the traumas of September 11.

NEW ROLE: A member of Scarborough Borough Council has been appointed to a post with the national Local Government Association. Godfrey Allanson has taken over as chairman of the coastal issues special interest group.

GARDENERS' MEET: Ampleforth and District Gardening Club will meet in the village hall on Wednesday, at 7.30pm, to hear a talk about shrubs and roses.