A man has denied murdering a young mother.

The body of Kelly Riseborough, 23, was found at the house she shared with Leslie Purvis, in Palgrove Road, Sunderland, on April 22. Mr Purvis, 38, who appeared before Newcastle Crown Court at a short hearing, will be tried on February 24.

CASH GRAB: A woman queuing at a Barclay's Bank cash point, in Eston Square, Eston, Teesside, grabbed several hundred pounds withdrawn by the woman in front of her. The thief, in her late 30s, about 5ft tall and with dark cropped hair, ran off towards Jubilee Road. Anyone with information is asked to call the police on (01642) 301870 in office hours.

BURGLARY CHARGE: A 45-year-old man from Murton, east Durham, has been charged with burglary and arson following an attack on a home near Blackhall Rocks in July. It was razed to the ground and £30,000 of goods stolen. The man is due to appear before Peterlee magistrates next Friday.

SCHOOL FIRE: Three youths, aged 14, 15 and 16 have been charged with arson after a blaze at Billingham Campus School earlier this week. They are due to appear at Teesside Youth Court on Monday.