POLICE are investigating an arson attack on the St Peter's Homing Society, in the St Peter's allotments, Walker Road, Newcastle, between June 24 and 25.

The fire, only made public by police yesterday, caused £6,000 worth of damages to clocks, baskets and other pigeon racing equipment. Anyone with information is asked to contact 0191-214 6555.

EGYPTIAN TALKS: Durham's Oriental Museum is organising two free talks based on its Egyptian exhibition. Living on a Country Estate in Ancient Egypt, by Ralph Austin, takes place at Durham University on Saturday, August 3, at 2pm, and The Egyptian Low Life: Minor Characters in Egyptian Art, by John Ruffle, takes place on Saturday, August 17, at 2.30pm. For more details, ring 0191-374 7911.

DANCE SHOW: The Studio Theatre, at New College Durham, was the venue for a performance involving groups who worked with the local dance development company Tin Productions over the past year, on Tuesday, and again last night. Among those taking part were Moving Tide, a group of adults with learning difficulties, Gilesgate Primary School dance club, and students from New College.

POND EVENT: Families are invited to start the morning with the sound of sedge warblers, followed by a look at the wetland flowers and insects at Shibdon Pond Local Nature Reserve, Gateshead, from 9.30am to 11am on Sunday. For more details, ring Brian Pollinger on (01207) 545212.

ANTIQUES SALE: A sale of antiques and curios will be held at St Cuthbert's Hospice charity shop, High Street South, Langley Moor, near Durham, on Thursday next week, at 9.30am. Proceeds go to the hospice in nearby Merryoaks.

SLIDE RIDE: Lung disease charity Breathe North is seeking volunteers to take part in its 550ft Giant Zip Slide, on the Town Moor, Newcastle, on Saturday, September 14, in aid of the British Lung Foundation. Entry is free for those raising £145 in sponsorship. For details, call Beverley Wears on 0191-263 0267.

LIONS MEETING: Chester-le-Street Lions Club meets on Monday, at 8pm, at Chester-le-Street Cricket Club, Ropery Lane. For further details, call the secretary, Trevor Blacklock, on 0191-388 3755.

ON SONG: A session helping songwriters to perform their songs to a professional level will be held on Saturday, from 10am to 12.30pm, at Chester-le-Street Community Centre. The session costs £5. For details call 0191-388 4752.

MUSIC DATE: Blues House will perform at Beamish Mary Inn, at No Place, near Stanley, tonight. Doors open at 8.30pm and admission costs £1.50. For details, call 0191-370 0237.

TEA DANCE: A tea dance will be held today in Abbey Sports Centre, Pity Me, Durham, at 1.30pm. Admission is £1.30 and everyone is welcome. For details, call 0191-386 6921.