Attempted bag snatch warning

WOMEN are being warned to be on their guard after attempts by a group in a stolen Vauxhall Astra to steal two handbags at the weekend. The first incident occurred at 4.30pm in the car park of the Asda store, in Portrack, Stockton. The second took place in the car park of the town's Safeway store, at Whitehouse Farm. Both attempts to take the bags were unsuccessful.

The car had been stolen from Ware Street, Stockton, and it is believed there were four people in it. One of them is described as male, white, 20 years of age, slim build and 5ft 7in tall. He was wearing grey clothing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Stockton police, on (01642) 302226.

CHILDREN'S NURSERY: Stockton Borough Council has received a planning application from Priestgate Developments to convert offices in Complant House, Cowpen Lane, Billingham, into a children's nursery, after school club and gym.

HOSPITAL EXTENSION: North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust has applied to Stockton Borough Council for planning permission to build an extension to the operating theatre unit at the University Hospital of North Tees, Stockton.

NEW ARTISTS: Saltburn Artists Project presents a series of exhibitions by new artists at the gallery in Marske Road until March 17. The exhibition is open from Wednesday until Sunday, between noon and 4pm.

SOCIAL BRIDGE: Social rubber bridge takes place every Tuesday and Friday evenings, from 7pm until 10pm, at the Durham Road Community Centre in Redcar. All are welcome.

FALSE ALARM: An object thought to be an unexploded device found on Saltburn beach, near the Ship Inn, on Saturday afternoon was just a piece of metal, an Army spokesman said yesterday.

SPORTS DAY: Children aged eight to 13 years can choose 55 minute taster sessions of seven sports at Redcar Leisure Centre on February 15. The programme includes football for girls and boys, athletics, badminton, volleyball, golf, fencing and judo. For more information ring (01642) 444398.

EXTENSION BID: A planning application for a single-storey extension at the back of a house in Erica Grove, Marton, has been received by Middlesbrough Council.