RESIDENTS are objecting to plans to build a block of flats in their neighbourhood.

Members of Stockton Borough Council's planning committee will meet tomorrow to discuss plans to build a three-storey block of 12 flats in Yarm Road, Stockton. The council has received 15 letters of objection and a petition containing 59 signatures. The site was formerly a garage and car sales area, which caused noise problems for residents. It has now been cleared of all the buildings with only a concrete base and brick wall left. But residents fear the new plans will add to existing problems in the area and said they have suffered enough from noise, nuisance and anti-social behaviour. They are also concerned car parking will become a problem and said bungalows, terraced properties or houses would suit the area better. Despite their concerns, councillors are being recommended by officials to approve the plans.

BURGLAR CHASED: An 87-year-old man chased a teenage burglar out of his Middlesbrough home on Monday. The youth was disturbed at the house in Balmoral Drive, Grove Hill, but escaped with a quantity of jewellery. The burglar is aged between 16 and 18, slim, 5ft 8in and has short, black hair. He wore a white jumper with a black band running across the middle. Anyone who can help is asked to ring police on (01642) 303126 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

INQUEST OPENED: An inquest has been opened and adjourned into the death of Heather Hodgson, 89, of Thomas Street, North Ormesby, Middlesbrough. The inquest heard that Ms Hodgson died in hospital in June.

HEARING ADJOURNED: The inquest into the death of 28-year-old Christopher Baldwin, of Albert Terrace, Middlesbrough, was opened yesterday. Mr Baldwin''s body was found at his home. The inquest was adjourned.

MUSIC DATE: Marske and New Marske Pensioners and Friends will present Steve Mansell who will perform a concert, Singing Songs You Love to Hear, on Tuesday, at the Marske Cheshire Home, from 2pm to 4pm. Entrance costs £1, which includes tea and biscuits.