MEMBERS of Darlington Rotary Club have praised the town's new football stadium.

Twenty Rotarians had a guided tour of the stadium in Neasham Road and president Derek Alderson said they had been impressed. Speaking at a Rotary meeting at the Dolphin Centre, he said: "The quality of the stadium is fantastic. It is a credit to the town." The stadium is scheduled to open next season.

THEFTS WARNING: Police are warning people to be vigilant after a spate of sneak-in burglaries in Darlington. A spokesman said last night that there had been a 50 per cent increase in that type of theft and warned people to ensure their houses were secure, even when they were at home.

FRIENDS MEET: The annual meeting of the Friends of Darlington Civic Theatre and Arts will be held in the Arts Centre, Darlington, on Wednesday, February 26, at 7.30pm.

SPANISH LESSONS: An extra beginners' Spanish course will start at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Darlington, on Thursday, February 27. For details call (01325) 461315.

CANCER NIGHT: An evening of music and comedy at Coundon Working Men's Club on Friday, February 28, will raise money for cancer charities. For tickets or details call (01388) 602720.

LEGION CHANGE: Bishop Auckland branch of the Royal British Legion has switched the venue of its meetings to Cockton Hill Club. The next is on Wednesday, at 1.30pm.

POP IDOL: Budding stars are taking to the stage for a talent contest in West Auckland Working Men's Club on Wednesday, at 7pm.

SPRING DANCE: The Dales Pony Society is holding a spring dance at the Glaxo Sports and Social Club, Barnard Castle, between 8pm and 12.30am, on Friday. For tickets call (01388) 772352.

SPONSORED SKIP: Gainford Primary School is hold a sponsored skipping event for the British Heart Foundation on Tuesday, February 25.

WILDLIFE GROUP: Sedgefield Wildlife Group will hold its annual meeting, faith supper and quiz at 7.45pm on Thursday, February 27, in Sedgefield Parish Hall. For details call (01740) 620 811.

MUSIC CONCERT: A concert featuring music hall and show tunes will take place at Sadberge Village Hall, near Darlington, on Saturday, March 8, at 7.30pm. Tickets from the village post office.

HALL PLAY: The Hunt Roberts Theatre will perform the play Cranford, at Witham Hall, Barnard Castle, on February 28, at 7.30pm.