SPORTING and literary events are planned for International Women's Day on Saturday.

Female writers from across the North-East will be meeting for Sparkler: A Celebration of Writing, on Newcastle Quayside.

Crime writer Andrea Badenoch and journalist, author and television presenter Chrissie Glazebrook will be among the many writers who will be reading from their work and talking about the challenges and opportunities facing women authors in the region.

The event, at Ouseburn Boat Club, Spillers Quay, at 7.30pm, has been organised by Mslexia magazine, women's publishers Diamond Twig and Independent Northern Publishers. Entry is £4 at the door.

A women's five-a-side football tournament is planned for the same day, at the Centre for Sport on West Road, in Newcastle.

The competition is for women aged over 16 and will cater for teams of varying standards, from beginners to those who play in organised leagues.

The centre will be operating a policy of no male staff or public on the day. For information about the competition contact Marguerite Fisher on 0191-241 7700.

On Friday, a Women's World Day of Prayer is being celebrated at the Salvation Army Citadel, Saddler Street, Durham.

The interdenominational service, at 10.30am, has been organised by the Christian Women of Lebanon.

People from more than 180 countries are expected to be taking part in the day of prayer.