Edward Stourton from Radio 4's Today programme chairs a recorded debate on the moral health of the nation, at Ampleforth College, York, tomorrow. The first of three discussions on the topic to be held around the country will be broadcast on Wednesday, May 8. Admission to the college's Alcuin Room is free, although people wishing to attend the debate from 4.15pm are warned that numbers may be limited. Panellists also include Cambridge professor Simon Blackburn, writer Claire Calman, and theorist and author Joan Smith.

GUIDing light: A guide, published by the Yorkshire Tourist Board, has been credited with a rise in the number of visitors heading for the region last year, despite the foot-and-mouth crisis. Research has indicated that 68 per cent of those who took a copy were new to the Yorkshire area, while the average amount they spent was up 12 per cent to £553.21 per party. However, statistics confirm stately homes, and walking holidays were the worst hit by foot-and-mouth, with a marked drop in the number of people staying for more than three days.

POST HASTE: Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Phil Willis is urging people in his constituency to support a petition that aims to safeguard post offices in the area, which are threatened with closure.

QUIET, PLEASE: York is to play a part in a day of action against noise later this year. A Noise Action Day has been declared on Wednesday, May 22, by the National Society For Clean Air and Environmental Protection. The city will participate by highlighting the problems which can be caused by noisy neighbours. More details on local events are available on (01273) 878781.

NEW CHIEF: The Yorkshire Agricultural Society has named its new chief executive. Nigel Pulling takes the post with immediate effect, moving up from head of finance and commercial enterprises with the society, based in Harrogate. One of his first tasks will be the preparation for this year's Great Yorkshire Show, which runs from Tuesday to Thursday, July 9 to July 11.