THE NORTHERN ECHO has launched an expanded weather forecast service online. The new service includes major centres between Newcastle and York, and from Whitby across to Carlisle and Kendal.

It features five-day predictions and is updated each morning. To check the weather in your area, log on to www.thisisthenortheast. co.uk and click on the weather icon in the left-hand links.

CRASH TOLL: A woman was fighting for her life in hospital yesterday after an accident near Scarborough, North Yorkshire. Andrew Hansell, 29, of East Ayton died in the crash on the A170, at 5.45pm on Tuesday. The injured woman was among three people who had to be cut from another car involved in the collision. The driver suffered minor injuries and a passenger was treated in hospital. Witnesses to the accident, near East Ayton, are asked to call (01723) 509555.

BUSINESS DRIVE: Three business leaders are to spearhead the North-East's multi-million pound drive to become a world leader in science and innovation. Wireless and new media chief Herbert Kim, energy firm boss Doug Everard and biotech investment fund manager Dr Fred Wright have been given the task by One NorthEast to attract the cream of scientific research and development to the region. They will lead new centres of excellence in specialist fields as part of plans for a North-East knowledge-based economy.

ZOE CASH: A fireworks display held by the Asda store in South Bank, Middlesbrough, raised more than £400 for the Teesside Zoe's Place Hospice for Special Babies, which is due to open later this year in a former convent at Normanby.

CARY'S BACK: Durham-born Mojo, alias Gary Wilkinson, is the new voice on the TFM breakfast show. The ex-Atlantic 252 Pizzaman goes to the Stockton station from working as a presenter in Canada. He will be joined by newsreader and entertainment editor Cara Paterson.

FAST LANE: Petty Officer Oliver Dale, 31, of Coulby Newham, near Middlesbrough, is enjoying life hurtling down the Olympic bobsleigh run at Lillehammer, Norway. The aircraft engineer, serving with 899 Squadron at Yeovilton, is among 150 novices being watched for international potential.

MONSTER FUN: The Asda store in Stanley, County Durham, holds a Halloween party from 11am tomorrow. There will be apple bobbing and a fancy dress competition for ages three to six, seven to 11 and 12 to 16.

LIVE MUSIC: Three days of music from some of the region's bands and musicians are being held at the Tap and Spile pub, Darlington. Doors open at 7pm for music on Saturday and on Friday, November 15 and Saturday, November 23.

FLOWER SOCIETY: The North of England Rose, Carnation and Sweetpea Society holds its annual meeting on Monday, November 4 at 7pm, at Gateshead Civic Centre.