THE Wheatsheaf Inn, at Borrowby, has been sold to a North Yorkshire couple returning to their roots.

The new owners are Paul and Helen Thomas-Peter, who come from York and are moving back to the county from London. The Wheatsheaf was sold through licensed property agents Robert Barry and Co on behalf of Steve and Pippa Rowley. A Grade II-listed property, the building dates from the mid-18th Century.

SUCCESSFUL YEAR: Bumper visitor numbers mean the Dales Countryside Museum, at Hawes, is celebrating its most successful year. More than 45,000 people have stepped through its doors since March last year. Fiona Rosher, manager, said: "The rise in visitor numbers reflects the hard work of everybody involved with the Dales Countryside Museum and we'd like to thank everyone who has made last year our most successful year yet."

SAVOY OPERA: The Leyburn Gilbert and Sullivan Society will present a concert performance of The Gondoliers, at the Methodist church hall on May 17, at 7pm. Tickets are £3. Proceeds will be divided between Christian Aid and Marrick Priory.

RUSSIAN VISITORS: Teaching experts from Russia have been the guests of York University this week, picking up tips on education. They have been consulting on a pilot programme which aims to improve technology training for teachers in Russia.

CRIME CHALLENGE: Community safety experts are to join pupils at Easingwold School in a month-long crime challenge. Year seven students will be set a series of tasks to explore their attitude to community safety issues.

OPENING DATE: The official opening of the combined fire and police station in Wycar, Bedale, has been arranged for June 6.

CRAFT FAIRr: A craft fair is to be held in the Chantry Hall, Bedale, next Saturday, from 10am to 4pm. Donations will be in aid of St Gregory's Restoration Fund.

CHARITY AUCTION: Thirsk Lions Club is holding a charity auction in the town hall on June 21 to raise money for the palliative care unit at the Lambert Hospital.