A TEESSIDE mayor, who has made friends with a group of American teenagers, has invited them to a civic reception tonight.

Coun Arthur Dobson, mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, was guest of honour at Eston Sports Academy on Saturday, where he watched an international basketball exchange.

Reach for Success, which was founded, in South Bank and Grangetown, hosted its Transatlantic visitors from Conneticut and New York, as part of the Americans' week-long stay.

Councillor Dobson enjoyed his visit so much that he has now invited the group of 11 teenagers to the mayor's parlour.

He said: "They're smashing lads. I was really impressed with their enthusiasm and I just wanted to show our appreciation by inviting them to the Town Hall."

Event co-ordinator Howard Leighton, said: "We were delighted to have the Mayor at our event and so pleased he stayed so long. It was greatly appreciated."