CHILDREN in north Hartlepool can watch puppet shows and take part in craft sessions at the start of their half-term holiday next week.

The events, which take place on Monday, are free but places must be booked.

Pat's Puppets, for children aged five and under, will be at the Methodist Church, King Oswy Drive, from 9am to 11am. To book a place, call (01429) 271976. The under-fours can celebrate Chinese New Year with a workshop at the Sure Start Centre, in Northgate, from 9.30am to 11.30am. Call (01429) 292555 to book a place. Children aged from eight to 13 can make cards at the Borough Buildings, in Middlegate, from 10am to noon and 2pm to 4pm. Places can be reserved on (01429) 420302.

TOY WORKSHOPS: Kirkleatham Museum, in Redcar, will hold morning and afternoon workshops for children to make toys next week. Activities include making puppets, doll's clothes, model aeroplanes, badges and masks. To take part, call (01642) 479 500.

PEACE VIGIL: A peace vigil and public meeting about the possible war in Iraq will be held at Stokesley Methodist Church on Saturday. Church representatives, peace campaigners and members of the Cleveland Branch of the United Nations Association will take part in a ten-minute vigil outside the church, starting at noon.

NEW MEMBER: Following the resignation of a committee member, Stockton Pedestrians Group is looking for a replacement. For details call (01642) 584230 or (01642) 656034.

RESIDENTS' MEETING: A meeting of the Billingham West Residents' Association will take place on Monday at 7pm in the St Mary Magdalene Hall, next to the shopping parade in Clifton Avenue, Billingham. The meeting will discuss Stockton Warm Zone and the regeneration of Billingham.