POLICE have been baffled by the theft of a family's pet lurcher from its kennel at a farm in Arkengarthdale.

The dog went missing on Tuesday, when intruders also took a pressure washer from an outbuilding. A white Ford Escort was seen in the Arkengarthdale Moor area at about the time of the burglary. Witnesses are asked to contact police on (01609) 789212.

DISTRICT LANDSCAPE: Harrogate District Council has posted details of work being carried out to prepare a Landscape Character Assessment for Harrogate on its website at www.harrogate. gov.uk/planning. Comments about the plans can be made via the website or by calling (01423) 556592.

CHRISTIAN AID: Volunteers are needed to help with house-to-house collections in Ripon during Christian Aid week, which will run from May 11 to May 18. The cathedral team is also looking for people to help with other fundraising events throughout the year. For details call Diana Dell, on (01765) 602272, or Loretta Williams, on (01765) 603352.

CHARITY DATE: The Northallerton and Dales branch of the Mencap Society will hold its annual meeting at its centre in Goosecroft Lane, Northallerton, on April 28 at 7.30pm.

MUSIC NIGHT: The Galtres Centre in Easingwold is hosting a night of music and dance on Saturday, April 19, at 7.30pm with the Tewit Youth Band and the Katrina Hughes dancers. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3 for children.

CASTLE GROUNDS: Visitors are invited to enjoy a taste of country living when the grounds of Clifton Castle, near Ripon, are opened in aid of the British Red Cross, on Sunday. Admission costs £2.50 for adults and £1 for children.