A musician has been banging the drum to help promote International Women's Day.

Robert Maseko took his African drum to Redcar, east Cleveland, at the weekend to join organisers giving out balloons and leaflets, advertising events to mark the day.

Events will take place at Redcar Bowl on Saturday, and include half-hour drum workshops with Mr Maseko.

Other free workshops include nail art, henna hand painting, circus skills and line dancing.

Organiser Tracy Kydd said: "Drumming is very relaxing and the workshop is always very popular. You can beat all your troubles away, instead of taking it out on each other.

"We're aiming to bring together females of all ages from across the borough to try new activities and take part in our free workshops. It should be a great day."

There will also be a free creche and children's activities, as well as swimming at Eston Leisure Centre, with a women-only session from 1pm to 2pm, and a family session from 2pm to 3pm.

Free transport is being organised to the Bowl from South Bank, Grangetown, Dormanstown, Guisborough and other areas in east Cleveland. For details call co-ordinator Tracy on (01642) 444481.

* The International Women's group in Trimdon Village held a series of events in the Labour Club to mark the day.

Lena Hase, a dental nurse who recently moved to the village, gave a talk on the differences in lifestyles between Britain and her native Germany, and MEP Mo O'Toole visited to look at the displays.

There were demonstrations of soft furnishings and hot stone massage from East Durham College, displays from Number 31 and Soda for victims of domestic violence, and physical health screening.

Published: 08/03/2004