A campaign to raise £60,000 for a conservatory and garden access for patients has been launched by nurses at the University Hospital of Hartlepool.

The staff of the hospital's rehabilitation unit want the facilities for patients of all ages who have suffered strokes, and elderly people who have had serious illness. Anyone who wishes to donate money, raffle prizes or get involved in fundraising is asked to write to Sister Carol Tunstall, c/o Ward 1, University Hospital of Hartlepool, Holdforth Road, Hartlepool.

NURSING HOME: Approval was given yesterday for a nursing home to be built at Spencerbeck Farm, Normanby Road, Ormesby. Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's planning committee also approved an outline application to demolish a Dutch barn on the site.

Sheds blaze: Firefighters dealt with two allotment fires within an hour on Wednesday night. The first badly damaged a shed on an allotment in Lime Road, Normanby, the second destroyed a shed in Exeter Road, in nearby Eston.

Play on: Saltburn '53 Drama Group founded in 1953, is planning a jubilee year. Celebrations start at the Spa Hotel on September 27. Past and present members are welcome, but are asked to ring (01287) 623740 before September 20. The group is also holding readings for its production of Agatha Christie's A Murder is Announced, at Saltburn Community Theatre next Wednesday and Thursday.

CYCLE RIDE: The fifth of this year's Stockton guided cycle rides takes place on Sunday. The 19-mile ride starts from Billingham Beck Valley Country Park Visitors Centre at 10.30am. The route will include the beck valley and Castle Eden Walkway. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.

STAMP FAIR: Redcar and Cleveland Philatelics Society is holding a free stamp fair at Redcar East Community Centre, on Wednesday, from 6.30pm until 9.30pm. For details call (01642) 723963.