THE mayor of Stockton, Councillor Jean O'Donnell, received a special invitation to join a supporter of her charity auction for tea.

A tour of Tetley's manufacturing plant at Eaglescliffe and a year's supply of tea was one of the lots for auction at the mayor's annual dinner, in October. Stockton Borough Council's town centre manager, Geraint Williams, secured the lot with a bid of £150. He invited the mayor to join him on the tour. They also had a guided tour of the factory.

WRITERS' GROUP: Writers interested in working in television are being urged to join a new group. Paul Williams, from Middlesbrough, has set up a network of writers to pass on tips, offer advice and encouragement and share experiences. To find out more, call (01642) 888969.

CHRISTMAS FUN: Father Christmas arrives at Hartlepool Historic Quay by pony and trap on Saturday, at 4.30pm. Hartlepool and District Hospice Christmas tree switch-on is at 6pm, with entertainment from the Alyson School of Music. Admission is free.

NEW OFFICE: Police have set up an office in Bolckow Road, Grangetown, for community teams. Police will visit the centre every day. Contact the centre on (01642) 464 753.

REVISION TIPS: Students in year ten at Red House School, Norton, took part in a seminar with lecturer Lily Murray to help them revise more effectively.

BIG THANK-YOU: Staff and customers at the Asda store, Billingham, raised £903 for BBC Children In Need with a sale of cakes and a collection.