Torrential rain forced the postponement of plans for a turf-cutting ceremony marking the start of work on site for a £300,000 Sure Start centre at Middlesbrough, yesterday.

Made up of a 12-place creche and support facilities, the centre is due to open in January.

BACK IN BUSINESS: The Iceland store in the Cleveland Centre, Middlesbrough, is reopening following a £200,000 overhaul. The new shop will provide fruit and vegetables and there will be a quick-stop shop and a kitchen appliance showroom.

ANIMAL AID: Close harmony singers Pieces of Eight will give a concert in aid of the Saltburn Animal Rescue Association animal sanctuary appeal at the Community Theatre, Saltburn, on Saturday, October 4.

HEAR, HEAR: A second Sound 4 Screen course for people aged 16 and over, who are interested in the effects of different forms of music and how they enhance atmosphere and tension, is to be led by musician and composer Tom Cooke. The event takes place at the University of Teesside, Middlesbrough, from October 27 to October 30, following the success of the first four-day course.

SINGING UP: The Apollo Male Voice Choir will give a concert at Middlesbrough Theatre, The Avenue, Middlesbrough, on Friday. Tickets are £6 (concessions £5) and are available from the booking office or a postal service on 07958 743312.

BOOK SALE: Books and videos are needed to help raise money for charity. Action Aid is appealing for people to hand over unwanted books for a sale which will raise funds for street children in Africa. The sale will take place in the central library, York Road, Hartlepool, on Monday, from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Anyone who wants to make a donation is asked to contact (01429) 236032.

ART CLASSES: A free weekly art class is being held in Grange Road Methodist Church Resource Centre, Hartlepool, every Tuesday between 10am and noon. Anyone who would like further information is asked to contact Dorothy Kennedy on (01429) 420288.