A man has been remanded in custody, charged with murder.

Unemployed Robert Ian Asprey, 54, of Sunnyside, Coulby Newham, near Middlesbrough, was remanded in custody by Teesside magistrates, yesterday. He is charged with the murder of 40-year-old Mark Thirsk, in De Niro's nightclub, Zetland Road, Middlesbrough, last Friday. Mr Thirsk was allegedly attacked while dancing with his girlfriend at the club and died of head injuries.

MISSING TEENAGERS: Police are trying to trace two Wallsend teenagers who have been missing for a week. Sarah Sandcaster, 14, and Laura Ivenson, 16, were last seen leaving their homes at 8am on Monday last week. The friends are known to visit Newcastle and police have asked them to get in touch to let their parents know they are safe.

PENSIONER ROBBED: A 72-year-old woman was robbed of her bag in Ravensworth Terrace, Dunston, Gateshead, at 10.15am on Saturday. The attacker ran off into Brompton Place, where he was seen getting into a white Ford Orion car. The bag contained cash and personal effects. The mugger is described as 18 years old, slim build, and 5ft 8in. He was wearing a black anorak and baseball-style cap. Anyone with details is asked to contact 0191-454 7555.

PUB RAIDED: Seven people were arrested when police raided a pub in an operation aimed at tackling suspected drug use at the premises on Sunday. About 35 officers were involved in the operation at Pallion Inn pub, in St Luke's Terrace, Pallion, Sunderland, at 3.10pm. Seven people were charged. Offences included possession of cannabis and public disorder. One man was cautioned and another released without charge.