Bar manager is remanded

A BAR manager accused of falsifying the accounts of a Harrogate pub of £6,000 over a nine-month period was told by the town's magistrates yesterday he would have to face a crown court trial. Darren Michael Simmonds, 31, was remanded on bail until May 29, when he is expected to be sent for trial at York Crown Court. Mr Simmonds, of Woodside, Harrogate, is accused of false accounting at The Regency pub, in East Parade, between January 1 and October 10 last year by failing to submit entries on weekly cash and reconciliation sheets.

Society show: Bedale Amateur Dramatic Society is performing Don't Dress for Dinner, in the High School, from Thursday to Saturday, April 18 to April 20, starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are available from Thompson's bakers, in the market place, or at the door.

Desert trek: Pensioner Aileen Chapplow joined others on an eight-day hike across the Namibian desert and raised £2,500 for Mencap. Ms Chapplow, a retired teacher, from Dringhouses, York, said: "It was an unforgettable experience."

SINGERS REQUIRED: A female harmony group is on the lookout for new singers. Anyone with a voice capable of a wide range of songs, including classical and modern, is asked to contact 07765 642383 for more information.

HOSPICE THANKS: A coffee morning in Richmond in aid of Darlington's St Teresa's Hospice raised £515. Organisers have expressed their thanks to all those who helped or contributed.

B&B REFUSED: Ryedale District Council's planning committee has rejected proposals for a holiday cottage on land at Eastgate, Pickering. Elaine Bedford, former operations director with the English Tourist Board, had wanted to create a cottage for disabled people.

NEW SEASON: Richmond Bowls Club begins a new season on Sunday, April 21, at 2pm, with free coaching for beginners. The club is also holding a coffee morning at Richmond Town Hall on Thursday, April 18. More information on either event is available by telephoning (01748) 830508