PLANS to increase taxi fares in Middlesbrough look likely to be approved today. Middlesbrough Hackney Carriage Association has applied to Middlesbrough Council for the increase in fares.

The last rise was three years ago and, since then, the association has seen fuel and insurance costs go up.

If members of the council's licensing committee agree to the proposed increase, the tariffs would not be introduced until September. At the moment, a three-mile journey costs about £4.20. Under the new proposals, it would cost £4.40.

BUTTERFLY BONANZA: Ecologist Dan McAndrew will lead a walk along the the former Hart-to-Haswell railway line, in Hartlepool, on Wednesday, from 10am to 12.30pm, to observe the wildlife that has colonised in the area. Anybody wishing to take part is asked to meet Mr McAndrew at the entrance off Ocean Road, Hartlepool. For further information, contact (01429) 523431.

SAFETY SCHEME: Stockton Borough Council will be carrying out local safety scheme works on Sheraton Street, Stockton from today for four weeks. Temporary traffic signals will be in place.

NEW SURGERY: Stockton Borough Council has received a planning application to change the use of two flats in Queensway, Billingham, into a dental surgery.

OPEN DAY: Billingham Theatre School is holding an open day on Sunday. The session is open to young people aged ten to 18 with an interest in musical theatre. The day starts at noon at the school, in Belasis Avenue, Billingham. Anyone wanting to take part is asked to book their place on (01642) 363334.

SPECIAL HELP: As part of Stockton Borough Council's Care for Your Area week, pupils at the town's Grangefield School spent time gardening at a local nursing home. Armed with spades and bedding WORKING HUNTERS: Working hunter horse and ponies classes are being held for the first time at this year's Cleveland Show at Stewart Park, Middlesbrough, on Saturday. Anyone who would like to show their animals in either event is asked to contact Margaret Dale on (01642) 312231