THREE anglers had to be towed to shore when the engine failed on their 20ft boat.

The Humber Coastguard called out the Teesmouth lifeboat, which found the vessel half a mile from the entrance to the River Tees, yesterday. A tow line was attached to the boat, which was then towed back to its mooring on the river. The anglers landed safely.

HOUSE FIRES: An empty house in Roworth Road, Middlesbrough, was well alight when firefighters arrived to tackle the blaze at the weekend. The fire caused 80 per cent damage to the room where it started and smoke affected the rest of the house. In a separate incident, a bedroom was gutted in a fire in an empty house in Derwent Street, North Ormesby, Middlesbrough.

MANIFESTO LAUNCH: MPs Dari Taylor and Frank Cook launched the Stockton Labour Party manifesto for next month's local council elections, at the weekend. The document pledges improvements in education and health, a cleaner and safer environment, heating improvements for homes, a thriving economy and more cultural and leisure opportunities.

CRAFT FAIR: Guisborough Town Pride is holding an Easter craft fair at Sunnyfield House, Westgate, Guisborough on Saturday, April 19. There will be refreshments, a tombola, raffle and craft stalls. Admission is free.

COMPUTER ADVICE: Two computer events have been organised by Brotton Library. There will be a digital imaging, music and video session on Friday, followed by Internet awareness guidance, on Saturday. For further information call (01287) 676342.