Lesley Tate

A hiker describes repeated encounters with dog owners allowing their dogs to roam off-lead in the Yorkshire Dales despite signs warning about livestock and ground-nesting birds. Several incidents involved dogs disturbing birds, attacking other dogs, and killing a duck, prompting debate over whether responsible walkers should challenge irresponsible owners. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority advises keeping dogs on leads near livestock and on short leads during the March-to-July nesting season, while strengthened laws give police greater powers to seize dogs and impose unlimited fines after livestock attacks.

Passengers are being invited to submit favourite places to visit, eat and drink along the Settle-Carlisle railway for inclusion in the free Traxplorer app by September 1, with contributors entered into a prize draw. The app provides real-time train information, station guides, historical details, attractions, food options, onward travel connections, digital postcards and games. The railway's development company, Northern, CrossCountry and the Community Rail Network say the project will encourage passengers to explore local communities, support independent businesses and strengthen the regional economy. Young volunteer Kai Ellison is helping expand the app's content as the line marks its 150th year of passenger service.

The Dales Pony Society marked its 110th anniversary with a President's Ride at Craven Country Ride in Coniston Cold. Twenty-six Dales ponies and riders, accompanied by supporters on foot, took part in a route organized by Malham-based Great All Rounders. The event included riding, galloping and jumping, with participants of different ages and abilities demonstrating the breed's versatility, endurance and sure-footedness. The Dales pony's historical development from mining and agricultural work to modern riding and driving was also highlighted.

Skipton Pride will return on August 8 at Coach Street Car Park, offering a free, all-ages celebration of the LGBTQ+ community from noon to 7 p.m. Dance duo Booty Luv headline a programme featuring tribute acts, singers and DJ Martin Turner, alongside community stalls and activities. Organiser Skipton Pride CIO says the event promotes inclusion and belonging, with strong positive feedback from last year’s attendees. Skipton Boat Trips is supporting a Pride Month Cruise, while temporary parking restrictions will apply during stage construction.

The 55th Trans Pennine Run will take around 110 vintage commercial vehicles on a 50-mile route across the Pennines, beginning at Birch services and finishing at Craven Cattle Mart in Skipton. The event will feature vehicles spanning nearly 80 years, including historic lorries, tractors, livestock wagons and two buses from the inaugural 1969 run. Organizers expect arrivals from about 11am and have secured parking for vehicles and visitors, with support from volunteers, local haulage businesses and Skipton Freemasons.

Austwick’s Annual Cuckoo Festival and Street Market raised more than £9,700 during a hot May bank holiday, drawing strong participation from residents, visitors and community groups. The event featured local clubs and organisations, a fell race with prizes presented by Patrick Grant, and a new dog show. Organisers highlighted the community spirit and volunteer effort that contributed to the successful fundraiser. Proceeds will support the village’s parish hall and playing fields.

A kestrel-shaped kite designed by kite maker Alan Poxon has been released by the charity Friends of the Dales to raise awareness of declining birds of prey in the Yorkshire Dales. Students at Craven College created and flew the kites as part of an educational activity addressing raptor persecution and biodiversity concerns. The campaign promotes conservation, highlights ongoing illegal threats to protected species, and offers a free kite template and related resources online.

Two decommissioned North Yorkshire fire engines are being donated to support emergency operations in Ukraine through the charity FIRE AID. Volunteer drivers from the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service will transport the vehicles to Ukraine via Poland. Local leaders, including Mayor David Skaith and Deputy Mayor Jo Coles, praised the effort, highlighting previous contributions of equipment to Ukraine and emphasising the community spirit behind the initiative.

A 22-year-old farm worker, Kieran, completed a 320‑mile walk between Jamie’s Farm sites to raise over £130,000 for the charity’s Challenge for Change appeal, which supports disadvantaged young people across the UK. The walk, spanning 18 days from Bath to Skipton, highlighted the charity’s work providing residential farm experiences that build confidence and resilience. Leaders and caregivers praised Kieran’s determination and personal growth, while the appeal nears its £140,000 target and the charity marks its milestone of supporting 20,000 young people.

Three walkers who became disoriented in mist on Ingleborough were guided safely down by the Cave Rescue Organisation, which located them using a Phone Find tool and monitored their descent until they were off the mountain. The organisation commended the group for seeking help early, preventing the situation from worsening.