YOUNG footballers eager to catch the eye of Premiership scouts will be heading for Stokesley this winter.

The town's leisure centre has teamed up with coaches from Middlesbrough's football academy to hold two ten-week long courses for five to 11-year-olds, from mid-September. They will be kicked off with a free taster day on September 14 when club mascot Roary the Lion will be greeting youngsters. Centre assistant manager David Earl said: "We are delighted to be joining forces with Middlesbrough once more - their summer coaching sessions have proved a great success in the past. We have had more than 50 youngsters every week all vying to be the next Gareth Southgate or Juninho." The sessions are held every Saturday and Wednesday, from September 18. To book places, telephone (01642) 711140.

Runners plea: Hartlepool and District Hospice is appealing to runners who are taking part in this year's Great North Run to consider it when they choose a charity for which to raise funds. The event is being held on Sunday, October 6, and runners should receive confirmation and entry numbers in the next few weeks. Anyone wanting to help the hospice is asked to contact Kevin Kidd on (01429) 288252.

Coins needed: Hartlepool and District Hospice is appealing to anyone who has any foreign coins or notes left over from their holiday to donate them to the hospice. Donations can be made at the hospice in Hutton Avenue, Hartlepool, or at the town's Asda store.

Royal ride: A motorcycle club whose members rode from Land's End to John O'Groats dressed as the Queen raised £3,444. Members of the Yorkshire Dragoon Rain Dancers Motorcycle Club braved the elements, and a few sniggers, to ride the 900-mile journey non-stop on their Honda 90s. All the money raised went to the Butterwick Children's Hospice, which is based in Stockton.

Hunt quiz: A quiz night has been arranged for Cleveland Hunt Supporters and their friends on Wednesday, August 21. Supporter Michael South has organised the general knowledge quiz to be held at the Fox and Hounds pub, Slapewath, near Guisborough, starting at 8pm. For more information ring Michael on (07815) 731612. Tickets cost £3.50 and include a buffet supper.