MONKS at Ampleforth Abbey enjoyed a Christmas concert with a difference this year when they were joined by a choir of girls for the first time. The Schola Cantorum choir, from St Martin's School, Ampleforth, sang at Vespers in the abbey church. Christopher Parker, director of studies at the school, said the choir offered the girls a chance to sing at a high standard.

Bridge debate: Kirkby Malzeard, Laverton and Dallowgill Parish Council is meeting tonight in Kirkby Malzeard Village Hall, at 7.30pm. Repairs to Creets Bridge, which suffered extensive flood damage last year, will be discussed with North Yorkshire County Council officers.

New station: Tenders are to be invited this month from companies interested in building a joint police and fire station in Wycar, Bedale. The station, which will replace a 40-year-old building on the same site, is being paid for by police and fire and rescue authorities.

Battle date: The Boxing Day tug-of-war across the River Nidd, at Low Bridge, Knaresborough, will start at 10am. Teams from the Mother Shipton and Half Moon pubs will take part.

Royal award: Disabled Norton College student Rachel Banhanmou has been given a Royal award for her battle against adversity. She was nominated for a Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award, for her outstanding contribution to the college and local community.

Lottery lifeline: Scarborough and District Search and Rescue team is celebrating after receiving a grant of £4,700 from the National Lottery's Awards for All programme. It will allow the team to purchase training equipment.

CENTRES CLOSED: Thirsk swimming pool and Hambleton Leisure Centre, in Northallerton, will both be closed from today until Friday for maintenance and repair work.

FESTIVE SALE: Alne Hall Cheshire Homes will be selling mulled wine and mince pies in Easingwold Market Place on Saturday, from 9.30am to noon. The town band will also play.