HAMBLETON District Council is introducing a charge for its rat and mouse treatments at domestic properties from April 1.

Each treatment or visit from a pest control officer will cost £25, plus VAT, but householders will continue to be given advice free of charge. "Introducing this charge was very reluctantly undertaken by the council," said Councillor David Webster, cabinet spokesperson on environmental health. "We have restricted the charge to less than the actual cost and will continue to offer advice to householders for free." The council's pest control service has made almost 1,300 home visits since April last year. Anyone with problems with rats or mice can call the pest control service on (01609) 767100.

EX-DETECTIVE DIES: A former police detective in Scarborough has died at the age of 66. During his 23-year career with North Yorkshire Police, Michael Carty received 13 commendations. He worked originally in the South Bank and Marton areas in the former North Riding force before he moved to Scarborough in 1968 where he became a detective sergeant. After leaving the police he became a benefit fraud officer with Scarborough Borough Council.

GATE NEWS: Reeth's community orchard has won a £1,500 National Lottery Awards For All grant to invest in a wrought iron gate which will be hung at the main entrance from the village green. Blacksmith Steve Calvert, from Gunnerside, will be commissioned to make the gate to a design decided with the help of local schoolchildren.

CHARITY SALE: The Thirsk branch of Yorkshire Cancer Research will hold a nearly new sale at the town hall on March 14, from 9.30am to 3pm. Any donated goods can be left at the town hall on March 13 between 9am and 4pm.

ANTIQUES DATE: Expert Eric Knowles, from TV's Antiques Roadshow, will host a valuation day at the Ginnel Antiques Centre, Harrogate, in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research, on March 16, from 11am to 5pm. Tickets are £12.50. Contact (01423) 508857 for more details.