FLIGHT paths in North Yorkshire are under review.

Flying circuits operated by RAF Linton-on-Ouse are to be scrutinised by a committee of councillors.

Members of Hambleton Council cabinet have instructed their overview and scrutiny committee colleagues to look into the circuits following complaints from local residents.

The council was asked to consider a change to the circuits used by the air base earlier this year following consultation with residents and parish councils.

The resulting change of circuit direction, which began in March, is subject to a year-long trial - which is due to be reviewed in September. Council members will study detailed analysis of noise levels incurred by local residents.

Noise monitoring sheets are being completed by householders living in the flightpath area and environmental health officers are undertaking random monitoring in Newton-on-Ouse relating to the use of the two runways at the base.

Flying circuits last changed in1995 to put the flying load to the west and north of the airfield away from Newton and Linton-on-Ouse.

"These changes led to complaints from local residents, so in 2002 we asked the RAF to look at changes to the visual circuits," said cabinet spokesman on safety, Coun John Fletcher.

"This year, a revision to the circuits was agreed for a 12-month trial.

"All the monitoring we are doing and the complaints we are receiving from local people will be brought together as part of a review after six months of operation."

The cabinet has asked for a further report in November.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the review should write to David Steele, environmental health manager, Hambleton District Council, Civic Centre, Stone Cross, Northallerton, DL6 2UU.