VOLUNTARY and community groups are being offered a share of more than £400,000 to help children and young people in the county.

Ten groups in the Ryedale district have successfully applied for grants totalling £50,000 from the Local Network Fund, through the Government's Children's and Young People's Unit. The fund aims to help groups in North Yorkshire make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged children by improving their standard of living, helping them achieve their goals and giving them a voice. Grants of up to £7,000 are available to groups that work with youngsters aged up to 19. For more information, contact the Local Network Call Centre on 0845 113 0161.

TYPICALLY TROPICAL: Richmond Primary School is promising some fun in the sun next weekend - no matter what the weather. The annual fair has adopted a tropical theme with prizes for the best fancy dress, and performances by the Richmond School Steel Band. The Mayor, Councillor Stuart Parsons, performs the opening ceremony at 2pm on Saturday. Other attractions include a silent auction, Army assault course, pony rides and a treasure hunt.

JAZZ NIGHT: Yorkshire Cancer Research holds its annual Swinton Park Jazz Picnic next Saturday. The lakeside event, near Masham, includes music from the Dave Challis Dixie Dudes and the Swale Valley Stompers as well as a fireworks finale. For details, call (01765) 603022.

NEW-LOOK LIBRARY: Richmond's refurbished library is offering some new services. DVDs and PlayStation games are also available from the revamped building on the corner of Queen's Road and Dundas Street. Customers who use the DVD service before the end of the month will also be entered in a free prize draw.

BOND NIGHT: Jennie Bond will be taking to the stage at Harrogate Theatre next week. The BBC's royal correspondent for the past 14 years will host a question-and-answer session on Tuesday. Tickets are priced from £8.50, and can be booked on (01423) 502116.

GET CREATIVE: A new range of courses in creative art are available in the Yorkshire Dales. Bainside Arts is offering its first season of lessons and workshops in subjects including drawing, embroidery, rug-making and Dru Yoga throughout the summer. For details, call (01969) 650000.