The congregation at Christ Church, in Harrogate, is being asked to boost its giving from £110,000 a year to £160,000 for the next five years.

Church treasurer Peter Alp says this is necessary to maintain Christ Church's present position and play their part on the wider religious stage.

To achieve the aim, Mr Alp says the average amount being given needs to be £8.50 a week. Kevin Slingsby has been appointed new director of music at Christ Church, Harrogate, replacing James Davies who has stepped down.

MANNING SPOTLIGHTt: Top class entertainer Brian Manning will be performing next month at the RAFA Club in Northallerton. The guitar vocalist, playing songs from the 1960s, will be take to the stage on Friday, February 7 at 8pm. Tickets for the event cost £5, available from the club and Garthway Tea Rooms, Northallerton, and include pie and peas. For more information call (01609) 773684.

NEW mortgage: Skipton Building Society has launched a flexible mortgage, specifically for first-time buyers. The exclusive deal included special benefits and discounts. For more information call 08457 171777 or call a local branch.

COMPUTER SUITE: The Tory MP for the Vale of York, Anne McIntosh, will open a new information and communications technology suite in an extension to Sowerby Primary School, on Friday.

COUNTRY FAIR: This year's Wykeham Country Fair at Wykeham, Scarborough, will be held on July 19 and 20 and will boast more attractions than ever before. For details contact the Country Fair Office on (01723) 866600.

SOCIETY AUCTION: Bedale Dramatic Society is celebrating its 50th year by holding an auction in Aiskew Methodist School Room on Tuesday, January 21. The event will begin at 7.30pm and will help fund the spring production, which will be staged in April. Anyone interested in auctioning some goods or finding out more about the society should call Jill Simpson on (01609) 775875.