A RANGE of activities has been organised to persuade women to say no to violence, as part of a national day.

Members of Cleveland Domestic Forum will be at Middlesbrough's Hill Street Centre, to promote International Women's Day, today.

They will ask shoppers to sign a pledge supporting anti-violence, and a petition calling for stiffer sentences for domestic violence crimes.

Forum members will also provide information on a range of projects and facilities for women, such as those run by themselves, the Middlesbrough Refuge for Women and Children, and Sure Start.

Debbie Roxby, who chairs the Forum, said: "International Women's Day gives us the opportunity to highlight some of the key issues concerning women in Middlesbrough and worldwide.

"We hope people will spare a few moments to look at the information, enjoy some of the activities, and sign our pledge."

On Saturday, Redcar and Cleveland's eighth International Women's Day will take place at Redcar Bowl, from 10am to 4pm.