MORE emphasis should be placed on the importance of shooting, hunting and fishing in the Ryedale area, town councillors have said.

Helmsley town councillors said countryside pursuits receive only a passing mention in the district's new cultural strategy, which embraces all aspects of life in Ryedale.

Town clerk John Dale said: "Many people's livelihoods depend on the sports and they should be given more prominence."

Tributes were paid at the meeting by the chairman, Lord Feversham, to three long-serving members who have stood down from the council. Geoff Nicholson has completed 33 years, Robin Carpenter, 24 years, and Betty Leckenby, 16 years.

Lord Feversham said they had given sterling service to the market town's life over many years and would be greatly missed. *l Strengthened glass screens are to be put over the flood lights which illuminate the Feversham Monument in the Market Place after vandals smashed perspex covers.