AN application to open a pub in Middlesbrough has been rejected by licensing magistrates because police fear it would lead to more town centre violence.

Magistrates heard there had been a 46 per cent rise in crimes in pubs in the town between 2001 and 2002. They agreed not to allow Blue to open in Albert Road, next to the Walkabout Inn.

MARKET CHANGE: Following the amalgamation of the Billingham and Stockton Friday markets at Stockton, a number of new traders have come forward. The market will continue to be held for a trial period of four months to find out how successful it is, and the impact it has on the town's Wednesday and Saturday markets.

CHARITY DAY: The Butterwick Hospice, in Stockton and Bishop Auckland, will hold a ladies' day, featuring aromatherapy, massage and reiki demonstrations. The day, at Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, County Durham, on Wednesday, March 26, starts at 10.30am with a flower-arranging display by Adam Prest. Tickets are £13.50, available on (01642) 624 231.

INDIA LINE: Harold Appleyard, a member of the Teesside branch of the World Ship Society, will give a talk on the British India Line, at the next branch meeting, in Newport Community Centre, in St Paul's Road, Middlesbrough, on Wednesday, March 19, at 7pm.

TALKING SAFETY: The National Health and Safety Groups Council has asked the Teesside Safety Group to host its annual meeting in April - the first visit the council has made to the region. The meeting will be at the Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough, on April 29.

NEW USE: Stockton Borough Council has received a planning application from Joseph Parr Builders to change the use of the Delta Bus depot, Blue House Point Road, Stockton, into a builder's merchant.