Pupils at Hawthorn Primary School in Elswick, Newcastle, got a surprise visit from rock legend Sting and Northumbrian piper and composer Kathryn Tickell today (Friday March 22). Their visit was in support of the In Harmony – a project delivered by The Sage Gateshead, which has enabled every child in the school access to a musical instrument and music tutors on a daily basis.

WITNESS SOUGHT: Police are appealing for a woman who helped stop a man being beaten up in St Nicholas Street, Newcastle, at 3.20am on Sunday, March 10, to come forward. A police spokesman said a 25-year-old man left the Tup Tup Palace nightclub when he was punched and kicked by several men. Two men, aged 22 and 23, were arrested on suspicion of affray and on bail pending further inquiries. Northumbria Police have appealed to the woman to contact them on 101 or on Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.

EQUIPMENT STOLEN: Police have appealed for witnesses after a number of saddles worth £6,000 were stolen from stables in North Road, Hetton-le-Hole, on Wearside. The theft was reported at 8.20am yesterday (Thursday, March 21). Anyone who has information or who may be offered a cheap riding saddle should contact Northumbria Police on 101 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.