Thieves stole a blue Yamaha YZR motorcycle from Watling Street, Leadgate, near Stanley, overnight on Wednesday, March 19.

Police believe there was more than one thief responsible, because they also took a heavy Snap-on tool chest, which would need at least two people to lift it. Anyone with information can call Consett Police on (01207) 504204.

IN STIR: Eight pupils from year 11 at Greencroft School, Annfield Plain, near Stanley, organised a sponsored lock-up at Stanley police station. PC Kevin Alder gave the 15 and 16-year-olds a talk on police procedures after an arrest is made. He then locked the students in a cell for 30 minutes. They raised more than £55 for the Prince's Trust XL programme in the Stanley area.

BIKE RIDE: Sponsors are needed to support a cyclist who hopes to ride from Land's End to John O'Groats for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Stuart Hurst, from Chester-le-Street, will leave Land's End on April 18 for the 16-day trip. To sponsor Mr Hurst, call 0191-382 3311.

FASHION SHOW: A summer fashion show will take place in South Shields Town Hall, on Monday, April 7, from 7.15pm. Admission is 50p at the door. Proceeds will go to Victim Support and Young Carers in South Tyneside.

BROADBAND LAUNCH: North Durham MP Kevan Jones will launch BT's Broadband Internet service for Stanley today, at 11am in the town's Asda store.

FROG DAY: A frog and toad day takes place in the Tyne Riverside Country Park, Newburn, Newcastle, on Sunday, from 2pm to 4pm. There will be a short talk and slide show in the visitor centre, followed by a walk around the park and its ponds to look for frogs. For details, contact 0191-264 8501.

SUSPICIOUS MAN: A man was spotted acting suspiciously at a home in Wylam Road, Shield Row, Stanley. Residents spotted the man in the rear yard, apparently trying to force open a window, on Thursday, March 20. He is described as 5ft 10ins, slim build, and was wearing a navy blue hooded top with the hood pulled over his face, gloves and blue jeans. He was carrying a chisel. Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information can call PC Mick Turner of Stanley Police on (01207) 232144.

BURGLARY ATTEMPT: Crooks tried to force a uPVC door to break into a home in Watling Bungalows, Leadgate, near Stanley, overnight on Saturday, March 15. Anyone with information can call Stanley Police on (01207) 232144.

MEETING CANCELLED: The meeting of Derwentside District Council's executive, scheduled for Monday, has been cancelled. The next executive meeting will take place on Monday, April 14, at Consett Civic Centre.