LORRY driver John Benson, 45, gave evidence of identification at an inquest which was opened and adjourned yesterday, into the death of his father, 78-year-old retired process operator Douglas Benson.

The inquest heard that Mr Benson senior, was admitted to the University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton, following a fall at Kirkdale nursing home, in Radcliffe Avenue, Stockton, on December 19. He was discharged from the hospital back to Kirkdale, where he died on Monday.

Winter workout: Volunteers are being invited to join in a day of conservation work at the Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park on Sunday, January 12, from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Anyone interested is asked to meet at the park's activity centre with a packed lunch and wearing old clothing. Places must be booked in advance by contacting (01642) 415225. The event is for those aged 14 or over.

Seal watch: There is a chance to watch the seals, waders and other wildlife in the Tees Estuary on Sunday. Anyone interested is invited to come to the Teesmouth Field Centre, off the Tees Road, Seal Sands, at 10.30am and 11.30am. places must be booked on (01429) 853325.

New project: A project has been set up by Age Concern to help the over-50s living in Hartlepool to fill out benefit claim forms. Local surgeries will be held to help people identify benefits they are entitled to and assist with filling in the forms. Home visits can be arranged if necessary. For details, call Age Concern on (01642) 654222.

More alleygates: A further 20 streets in Hartlepool have been earmarked to have alleygates fitted to improve security. Hartlepool New Deal for Communities (NDC) is behind the project, which is part of an ongoing package of environmental security measures. Consultation with residents will be held on a street by street basis, and if they favour the alleygates they will be installed during February and March.

Strategy online: Hartlepool Partnership's Community Strategy, the document that sets out the future vision of the town, can be viewed online at www.hartlepool.gov.uk. Copies of the revised strategy are also available from the civic centre, Bryan Hanson House, and all libraries in the town.

Inquest adjourned: An inquest into the death of 79-year-old Robert Myers has been opened and adjourned at Middlesbrough. The widower, who lived in Tithebarn Road, Stockton, was admitted to Middlesbrough General Hospital on December 11 and was transferred to the James Cook University Hospital, where he died on Sunday.