Motorcyclists can improve their safety skills on a six-week course at Cleveland Police headquarters, in Middlesbrough, from Sunday.

Participants will be trained to take the motorcycle test of the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) after completing the course. It costs £35, which includes the six weeks of tuition, as many observed rides as are necessary, and the latest copies of the IAM motorcycle training manual and the Highway Code. The course will take place on Sunday mornings. Those wishing to take part must have a full UK motorcycle driving licence and a bike capable of maintaining the national speed limit. They can contact Carol Hammond on (01642) 894856. Places are limited.

DOG SHOW: The Saltburn Animal Rescue Association is joining forces with the Save our Strays group at The Cheshire Home, Marske, for a fun dog show on Saturday, August 23. Events start at 11am with the dog show getting under way at 1pm. Proceeds from the show will be split between the two groups. For further details, call (01287) 201 005.

SMILE COMPETITION: The Asda store in North Street, South Bank, is holding a Sunshine Smile competition from today until Saturday. Parents are invited to take photographs of babies aged up to two years. The winner will receive an Asda voucher worth £50. The overall winner from a number of stores will receive a portrait of their baby or family worth £115.

HOSPICE APPEAL: The Butterwick Hospice is currently recruiting young people to take part in the Junior Great North Run in aid of Butterwick Hospice Care. If anyone is interested in running for the Hospice please contact Sara or Nicola in the fundraising department at the hospice on (01642) 624231.