THERE is still time to take part in the Stockton International Riverside Festival community carnival.

This year's theme has been inspired by the town's railway heritage. Carnival organisers are holding drop-in sessions, open to everyone, at Spark, a community art centre, in Bishopton Road West, on Saturdays this month, from 10am to 4pm, and on Sundays, July 22 and 29, from 11am to 3pm.

JOBS ADVICE: Job-seekers can take part in a Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-type quiz, for book token prizes, during a three-day Skill Up Tees Valley exhibition at the Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough. The event, from Tuesday to Thursday, will offer information about education, training, guidance and work experience opportunities.

HOMECOMING: The youthful Arden Theatre Company, set up by two former Stockton schoolboys, is to stage their version of Shakespeare's Richard III at Stockton's Arc theatre complex, from Wednesday to Saturday next week. Performances start at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £8 and £5 for concessions.

BUDDING BECKHAMS: Young Boro fans can sign up to a summer of fun by joining Middlesbrough Football Club coaching courses. The courses are for children aged five to 14 and are available from July 24 to August 30.

GIVE AWAY: Staff at Sainsbury's Guisborough store yesterday distributed 2,500 free Sainsbury's magazines, containing Jamie Oliver recipes and tips to inspire children to get into the kitchen.