THE public toilets have reopened in Norton having been refurbished following several spates of vandalism – and will now be monitored by CCTV cameras installed by the town council.

Mayor of Norton on Derwent, Di Keal, said: “After repeated damage to our public toilets, Norton town council had to work hard to retain what we consider to be an essential public service in the face of North Yorkshire Council considering closing them for good.

“Fortunately the town council has won this battle, but in order to hopefully deter future vandalism or to catch the culprits should any further damage be done, we have had to install CCTV on Church Street.

“Residents have asked the town council when the toilets are to be opened again so people obviously value them - we are pleased to be able to retain them for Norton and ask everyone to respect them as a facility for all.”

Eagle-eyed pedestrians and motorists using Norton's Church Street will also have noticed a new family of sheep amongst the flower beds.

The sheep – a ewe and two lambs – planted with seasonal flowers and foliage, were made specially for Norton on Derwent town council by members at Acorn Community Care, who are based in the town.

Cllr Keal added: “The sheep were an idea that our town clerk, Claire Eade, came up with them to tidy up a long neglected area in Church Street that had become very scruffy and overrun with weeds.

“We are delighted to have worked in partnership with Acorn Community Care, a thriving local charity, who have done a brilliant job producing and helping to installing the steel sculptures – they really brighten the entrance into Norton and we hope to plant them with different plants during the year.”

Alison Cashmore from Acorn Community Care, said: "Acorn Community Care, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals with learning and physical disabilities, are very proud to have contributed a unique metalwork sculpture to the town of Norton. Through our welding programme, we teach the people we care for valuable skills that not only foster creativity but also build confidence and a sense of empowerment. This hands-on experience allows them to develop practical abilities while engaging in a rewarding craft. The sculpture now stands as a testament to their hard work and talent, bringing them immense joy and pride as they see their contribution displayed for the whole community to enjoy."