POLICE are hunting a mugger who made off with a pensioner's purse.

The thief struck at about 7.10pm on Sunday, when the 79-year-old woman was walking past an off-licence in Neasham Avenue, Billingham. The thief ran off towards Tunstall Avenue with her purse, which contained a small amount of change. He was white, 5ft 4in, slim built and was wearing light trousers, a padded jacket and a dark woollen hat. Anyone who saw the attack is asked to call Stockton CID on (01642) 302226.

OPEN MEETING: A meeting of Low Grange Residents' Association, Billingham, will be held on Wednesday, March 12, at 7pm, in Low Grange Community Centre. The meeting will allow residents to air their views and discuss problems concerning the Low Grange and Marsh House areas. Police and council representatives have been invited to attend.

PLAY BRIDGE: Redcar Adult Education Service is running a two-hour course in basic bridge-playing skills. Anyone interested in taking part is asked to visit Saltburn Community Arts Centre on Thursday, at 10am.

TRUST MEETING: A public board meeting of South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust will take place at 10.30am next Tuesday, in the James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.

HOSPICE HELP: A tombola and craft stall will be at Redcar Library on Thursday morning. Money raised will go to Zoe's Place hospice, in Normanby.

RNLI SUPPORT: A coffee morning in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution will be held in the Methodist Church Hall, Milton Street, Saltburn, on Saturday, March 8, from 10am. Admission is 50p.

CASH GIVEAWAY: Seven local charities and groups will share £1,800 donated by Marske Horticultural Society. Dr Moore's surgery will receive a donation of £1,000.