Spotlight on health issues

A HEALTH initiative promoting a range of complementary therapies is due to benefit residents of Hartlepool's New Deal for Communities (NDC) area. Hartlepool Mind, with financial backing from NDC officials, plans to offer people up to eight therapy sessions free of charge. First, however, the charity is inviting residents to attend two awareness-raising events at the People's Centre tomorrow and at Grange Road Methodist Church on April 10, both from 10am to 2pm, to learn more about the types of treatment that exist. There will be demonstrations and talks about a range of complementary therapies, including acupuncture, hypnotherapy, chiropractic and Indian head massage. The number of free therapy sessions is limited and places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone who would like to book a place is asked to call (01429) 269303.

OPEN MEETING: An open meeting of Saltburn Community and Arts Association takes place tomorrow at 7.30pm in Saltburn Community Centre. The main topic for discussion will be the facilities available for the young people of the town. All residents of Saltburn and the surrounding villages are welcome to attend.

ILLUSTRATED TALK: Members of Redcar Lecture Society will be taken for "A Cruise on the Nile" at the group's meeting tomorrow, at 7.30pm, in the United Reformed Church, Station Road, Redcar. Admission for visitors is £1.

IN TUNE: Marske Fishermen's Choir will provide an evening of entertainment at Grosmont Road Day Centre, Redcar, at 6.30pm on Wednesday. Admission is £1, to include refreshments. All proceeds will go to the new play park on Roseberry Field.

ANNUAL MEETING: Saltburn Animal Rescue Association will hold its annual meeting on Wednesday at the TocH premises on Albion Terrace, Saltburn, at 7.30pm. New members are welcome.

NURSERY PLAN: An application to build a children's day nursery with car parking at Cropton Way, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, has been received by Middlesbrough Council.

HOSPICE BOOST: Motor-cycle instructors raised more than £250 for the Butterwick Hospice. Staff from the Cleveland Motorcycle Training Scheme, run by Stockton Borough Council on behalf of the five Tees Valley authorities, raised the money at an annual party.

SHOP CLOSURE: In order to complete a £1m refurbishment programme at The Designer Room in Jacksons Landing, Hartlepool, the store will close for 18 days, from March 18 to Good Friday. Big Brother star Helen Adams will officially open the new store on Good Friday.