POLICE say they are pleased by the number of firearms surrendered by the public during the current amnesty, which runs until the end of the month.

Across North Yorkshire, four revolvers, a single-shot pistol, 18 shotguns, four rifles, six air rifles and four air pistols have been handed in during the past 11 days, as well as ten imitation guns and just over 1,500 rounds of ammunition.

CAUGHT SPEEDING: A woman stopped by police for speeding in Ingleby Arncliffe, in November last year, was fined £60 yesterday. Richmond magistrates were told 37-year-old Janet Hunt, of East Harlsey, was running late when she became stuck behind a horse trailer and tried to overtake. Her Renault Scenic was recorded travelling at 81mph by a police patrol car on a stretch of road limited to 60mph. She pleaded guilty by letter.

OPEN GARDEN: During both bank holiday weekends in May, Old Sleningford Mickley, near Ripon, is hosting an open garden event to raise money for charity. The gardens will be open between 1pm and 5pm on Sunday and Monday, May 4 and 5, and Sunday and Monday, May 25 and 26. Admission will be £2.50 for adults and 50p for children. There will be access for wheelchairs.

FUNDRAISING: Two old-time musical instruments will be playing during the bank holiday at the Dales Festival of Food and Drink. John Coulson, of Northallerton, the charity's management committee chairman, will be taking an 1883 Tomasso Street Barrel Piano and a Keyless Dean Fairground Organ to the event, which runs from May 3 until May 5.

CHRISTIAN GROUP: Christians across the county are being invited to join an e-mail discussion group. For details, call (01677) 450518.