HAMBLETON District Council has retained its Investors in People status following a rigorous assessment.

Assessors said the authority was an "excellent example of a well managed, effective organisation that is developing a useful culture of continuous improvement". The award is made in recognition of the work put in to developing employees' potential. It identifies areas of good practice, as well as areas where improvement can be made. "Working towards the standard helps us to improve our performance by linking the development of employees to our corporate objectives," said the council leader, Councillor Arthur Barker.

BAT WATCH: Bat enthusiasts are invited to learn more about the creatures from expert John Drewett, at Kiplin Hall, near Scorton, Richmond. His talk will take the audience out into the night to learn about the local population of pipistrelle. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 23, between 8pm and 10.30pm. Tickets cost £4 for adults and £2.50 for children. Those wishing to attend are urged to book early, on (01748) 818178, to avoid disappointment.

FITNESS SESSIONS: Regular swimmers can try aquafit fitness sessions - water-based aerobics set to music - free of chjarge at Stokesley Leisure Centre. To qualify, users need to collect a Leisure Link card from the centre and get it stamped when attending three swimming sessions.

GURKHA SHOW: Gurkhas from Catterick Garrison will be among those taking part in Wensleydale Show, at Leyburn, on Saturday, August 23, giving a kukri demonstration.

DONORS WANTED: A blood donor session is to be held at the nurses' recreation hall at the Friarage Hospital, Northallerton, on Wednesday, from 3pm to 7pm.

OLD MACHINES: North-allerton Vintage Machinery Society is holding a display featuring old tractors, stationary engines and other bygones, at Strike's Garden Centre tomorrow.

SCHOOL ART: A selection of A-level art work by students at Thirsk School has gone on show at the town's Zillah Bell Gallery, in Kirkgate. The exhibition will run until July 19.