IMPROVEMENTS are on the drawing board for Helmsley's churchyard. They include the creation of a wilelife area to encourage wild flowers and the possible removal of a silver birch tree to improve views of the landmark parish church of All Saints.

Meanwhile, the town council is changing its fee charges for burials in the cemetery. The present fees for non-residents or people who do not have historic links with Helmsley, are likely to be doubled to £950 because of the shortage of burial space still left.

A charge of £200 is to be made for the burial of cremated remains.

Next month the town council is to explore the idea of using sheep to cut down on grass cutting bills in the cemetery.