AN abandoned dog which was handed in to a rescue centre after having its leg broken by a car is looking for a home.

Murphy the labrador/collie cross was handed to Saltburn Animal Rescue Association (Sara). Sara chairman Anne Prosser said: "He's a lovely, lovely dog, he would make an ideal family pet. These days he really loves life and is full of energy, but he needs a bit of training while he's outside." To help, call (01287) 201005.

ACTIVITY DAYS: Children can make a family shield out of clay during a family learning session at Margrove Heritage Centre, near Guisborough, today. The sessions are free and will be held from 10am to noon, and from 1pm to 3pm. To book a place, call (01287) 610368. Visitors to the centre tomorrow can learn how to make a paper fold castle and a catapult, from 10am to noon, and from 1pm to 4pm.

RECYCLING SCHEME: From June 9, people in the Blue Hall ward in Stockton will be able to recycle glass, cans, paper and textiles at home. Residents will be issued with a box, bag and a leaflet telling them what can be recycled. The box and bag will be collected fortnightly.

ART LESSON: Guisborough Forest and Walkway is offering the chance to study botanical illustration with Colin Swinton on Wednesday, June 11, from 10am to 4pm. The session costs £5. To book, call (01287) 631132.

HEAVENLY TRIP: Stargazers will be able to enjoy trips around the universe at the planetarium at Castle Eden Walkway, Thorpe Thewles, near Stockton. The sessions will be held at 3pm on June 8, 15, 22 and 29. To book, call (01740) 630011.

PLAYGROUP STARTS: Children under the age of five are invited to a new playgroup at The Forge, Somerset Road, Stockton. There will be daily, two-hour sessions. To register, call (01642) 533403.

KITE CLASS: Plastic shopping bags will be turned into kites at Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar, tomorrow. The free sessions will be held from 10am to noon, and from 1pm to 4pm.