Rounton Gates level crossing, north of West Rounton, Northallerton, is to close temporarily for maintenance. The closure will take place between Saturday and next Wednesday, although it is expected the work will actually be carried out between 10pm on Saturday and 9am on Sunday.

MUSIC NIGHT: Ian Williams will perform at the Rafa Club, Northallerton, in aid of the Hambleton and Richmondshire branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society on Friday, June 13, from 8pm. Tickets are £5.

BIKE PRIZE: Youngsters who take part in half-term nature activities at Castle Howard, near Malton, will have the chance to win a mountain bike. The prize draw is in aid of the Irene's Cancer Appeal charity.

BIN WIN: Pupils at Rossett Acre Primary School, in Harrogate, have been given a personalised litter bin after ten-year-old Bradley Hutchinson won a council competition to design an anti-litter logo.

DAWN CHORUS: A dawn chorus event is being held at Dalby Forest, near Pickering, on Sunday, when people will try to see early-rising birds and animals. To take part, call (01751) 460412.

MINSTER TRIBUTE: A memorial service for Jack Birch, a former Lord Mayor of York, who died last month aged 92, is to be held at York Minster, on Friday, May 30, at 2.15pm.

ANTIQUES STOLEN: Police are warning dealers to be on their guard after antique furniturte was stolen from the garden of from Draycott Hall, near Reeth, on Monday.

Grim past: Edward II once called medieval York the filthiest city in England. This weekend, visitors on a guided tour of Clifford's Tower will find out about the infections, diseases and treatments of the Middle Ages, with cures including leeches and snails.