A SOUTH Bank family have again proved they are first class.

Andrew Silk, a 16-year-old second dan black belt, won two first places in a Tang-Soo-Do karate competition in Bristol, while 13-year-old cousin Bradley Morgan and sister Stephanie, ten, won a first place each. Andrew's older brother, Martin, 17, who coaches the family, was awarded a special plaque. Andrew and father, Colin, recently won bronze medals in international championships in the US while 12-year-old brother Mathew won a gold. Mathew came fifth in the competitions at Bristol.

RESIDENTS' MEETING: The Low Grange Residents' Association is holding an open meeting on Friday, at 7pm, in Low Grange community centre, Low Grange Avenue, Billingham, where people can discuss any problems. Police, council officers and local councillors have all been invited.

SWIMMING CLUB: Billingham Amateur Swimming Club has vacancies for new members aged from three years. The club meets in the pool at Billingham Forum every Saturday and Sunday, from 8am to 9am. Anyone interested in joining the club is invited to go along to the pool or contact (01642) 645148.

CONCERT DATE: Stockton Male Voice Choir is holding a concert on Saturday, from 7.30pm, at the town's Baptist Tabernacle in aid of the Butterwick Hospice. Among those taking part will be the Jane Rumney Recorder Group. Tickets are available from all Butterwick shops, choir members, the Baptist Tabernacle or Sarah Eldon on (01642) 624231.

THREE STARS: Judges Country House, on the outskirts of Yarm, has been awarded three red stars by the AA and the RAC for service excellence.

CHOIR NIGHT: The Rotary Club of Cleveland presents the Teesside Apollo Male Voice Choir at St Mary's Cathedral, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, on Friday, October 11, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £3.50 for adults and £3 concessions. Tickets are available by contacting (01642) 319793 or (01642) 314780 or at the door. All proceeds go to Cancer Research UK.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING: Tickets have gone on sale for the annual Butterwick Hospice Christmas shopping trip, which this year is to the Trafford Centre, Manchester. Tickets cost £10. For more information call (01642) 624231.