A warrant without bail was issued for David Recker, 31, of Herbert Street, Darlington, yesterday after he failed to attend South Durham Magistrates' Court.

Mr Recker is charged with a string of driving offences plus assault, theft and failing to surrender to custody.

COMPUTER DAY: A taster day is being held at Heighington Village Hall for anyone intersted in using the village's new computers. The Heighington Village Hall Association was recently awarded a number of computers from BT and on Saturday, July 5 residents will be able to find out more about them. The taster day will run from 10am to 3pm.

ARTS WEEK: Haughton Community School in Darlington, is holding a summer arts festival beginning on July 10. Chameleon Theatre will hold a workshop for year nine students on Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment to launch the event.

COUNCILLOR WANTED: Middleton St George Parish Council is looking for a new member. Councillors already serving on the council will nominate possible new members when they meet next month. Anyone in the village interested in taking on the remaining post is asked to contact a member of the council.

FESTIVAL DATE: St James the Great Church, Albert Hill, Darlington, is holding a mass, procession and benediction on Friday, July 25 at 7.30pm as part of the St James Festival 2003.

SUMMER FAIR: A summer fair featuring Punch and Judy, face painting and toy stalls, takes place at Darlington's Harewood House and Harewood Lodge next Friday, at 10.30am. For further details, contact (01325) 255486.

MP'S SURGERY: North-West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong has her monthly advice surgery tomorrow, from 11am, at North House, North Terrace, Crook. No appointments are necessary.

PARISH COUNCIL: Stanhope Parish Council holds its next meeting on Wednesday, July 2, at 7pm in the Board Room at Stanhope Town Hall.

TABLE-TOP SALE: A table-top sale organised by the Friends of Senior Citizens will be held at Witham Hall, Barnard Castle, on Saturday, June 28, from 10am to 2pm. Tables are available to hire on (01325) 313924.

MOWER PURCHASE: Great Aycliffe Town Council has authorised the purchase of a mower at a cost of £18,675.