A SUPERMARKET is likely to be given the go-ahead for a major extension after months of planning wrangles. Tesco is expected to receive backing to expand its store in East Road, Northallerton, when Hambleton district councillors meet this week.

Early plans for the development were rejected by the authority last year after English Heritage and other groups expressed concerns about the impact on the town's conservation area. But amended proposals, which include 271 parking spaces, have been supported by planning officers. Planning committee members will make a decision on Thursday.

Laura Norton has the best possible reason for taking a day off school tomorrow - she will be mingling with royalty.

The 13-year-old Northallerton schoolgirl will be presented to the Duke of Gloucester when he visits Thirsk, on Tuesday.

Laura will be the guest of Hambleton District Council chairman Denis Howey, when the Duke takes a tour of the World of James Herriot Centre.

Laura won a day with the chairman in a fundraising auction of promises, at the Allertonshire School, last year.

FOUR members of staff from Broadacres housing association in Northallerton had a "hair reducing" experience recently when they raised £350 from a sponsored hair shave for the charity Dreams come True.

Staff from Saks in Northallerton were on hand to carry out two head shaves, the removal of one beard and the waxing of a pair of legs. The event was just one of several that Broadacres has organised over the last six months for Dreams Come True, a national charity which helps seriously and terminally ill children realise their dreams.