CYCLISTS raising money for veterinary charities are due to make a stop-off in Thirsk today.

The nine riders, all taking part in the Tour de Vets, will call at the World of James Herriot visitor centre half-way through a 420-mile ride between London and Edinburgh. They set off from the British Veterinary Association (BVA) last week to make their way to the BVA Congress in Edinburgh. They are stopping off at as many centres of veterinary interest as possible and hope to raise more than £10,000 for charity. Sue Dalton, manager at the Herriot centre, said: "We hope they will be interested in having a look around not just to see where one of their most famous vets worked, but also the vast collection of veterinary equipment we have amassed."

OK GRANTED: Lightwater Valley theme park, near Ripon, has secured retrospective planning permission from Harrogate Borough Council to retain a temporary building at its North Stainley site for an amusement ride.

STAGE STAR: Thirsk School pupil Richard Lyth, 12, has beaten 50 other youngsters to win the lead role in a new production of the musical Oliver! The York Musical Company is staging the show at the city's Grand Opera House from Thursday to October 4.

OPEN DAY: An open day to give advice about the range of services available from North Yorkshire's libraries will be held at Ripon library on Wednesday, from 2pm to 5pm. Experts from a range of agencies will be present.

FLOWER CASH: A three-day flower festival organised by the congregation of Sowerby Methodist Church, on the theme of Childhood Memories, raised £3,000. The cash has been shared out between three charities, Candlelighters, the NSPCC and National Children's Homes.

NEW KIT: Ripon hornblower Alan Oliver is to be bought a new costume by the city council to replace the one he has used for the past 20 years and is now the worse for wear. The outfit is worn when the hornblower "sets the watch" each night at 9pm, a tradition that dates back 1,100 years.

HIT MUSICAL: Northallerton Operatic Society is staging its version of the musical Hello Dolly! at the Hambleton Forum from October 27 to November 1, at 7.30pm each night with a 2.15pm matinee on the Saturday. Advance booking details are available by contacting (01609) 770936.