We are not amused

A Northallerton restaurateur has failed in a bid to open an amusement arcade in the town.

Councillors considering a licence application from Mr John Bassett, who wanted to install eight machines in an empty shop in East Road, were told they had a duty to protect young people from the vice of gambling.

Mr Bassett, who runs Bassett's restaurant in Friarage Street, wanted to install the machines as an experiment to see whether there was any demand for them.

Hambleton licensing sub-committee, however, decided that the application should be refused because members felt the arcade would become a meeting place for young people of all ages, with the possibility of complaints or trouble.

They also said there was no need for another amusement arcade when there was already another only 200 yards away.

Sweethearts look back on cherished years

A PAIR of childhood sweethearts celebrated 50 years of married life in Northallerton.

Mr Ted Lewis and his wife, May, of The Green, Romanby, were given a surprise party at Northallerton cricket club, where 71 guests gathered to mark the occasion.

"The best thing about it was that we had our best man, two bridesmaids and an usher from our wedding day there, and there are not many couples who can say that after 50 years," said Mr Lewis.

Family members were joined by representatives from the charities and organisations that the couple have supported over the years. Mr Lewis, aged 71, has been involved in brass bands for 62 years and is a former chairman of Northallerton district band. He is also chairman and a founder member of the Northallerton Royal Naval association and has been a member of the North Lodge buffaloes for 42 years.

New recruit

NORTHALLERTON has a new St John Ambulance recruit.

James Clark was welcomed as a cadet by Mrs Sue Sherman, county staff officer for North Yorkshire and Teesside.

James' enrolment means he has a responsibility of care for the sick and needy, and will learn more about first aid, as well as developing a number of other skills, including communication, team work and leadership.

As he develops he will be given opportunities to accompany adult volunteers in providing first aid services at public and sporting events.

The Northallerton cadets meet on Thursdays from 6.30-8pm at the Mencap centre. For more information, contact Adele Tyrala on 01845 521910.