AN 81-year-old woman has fallen victim to a conman who knocked on her door and asked for a drink of water.

When the woman went to get a glass the thief ran upstairs at the house in Ventor Avenue, Hartlepool, before taking a purse.

He was described as in his early 40s, about 5ft 9in and of medium build. He was wearing a beige anorak. Anyone with information about the theft, which happened at 10am on Tuesday, or who has fallen victim to a man of the same description, is asked to contact PC Jim Petford, of Hartlepool police, on (01642) 302126.

SPORTING CHOICES: Youngsters aged eight to 16 can choose from nine sports for a series of one-hour taster sessions during a Try Sports Day at Gillbrook College of Technology, South Bank, on Wednesday, February 19, from 10am to 4pm. It costs £2 to take part. For details call (01642) 444338.

ROAD COLLISION: A woman travelling in a Ford Fiesta was taken to Hartlepool General Hospital with back injuries after the car collided with a cyclist near Asda on Surtees Road, Peterlee, just before 11am yesterday. The driver, from Shotton, was treated at the scene for cuts, and the cyclist, who is from Peterlee, was taken to Hartlepool General Hospital with minor injuries.

SERVICE CELEBRATION: As part of its centenary year celebrations, All Saints' Parish Church, Eaglescliffe will hold a confirmation service on Sunday, February 16, at 10am. The Bishop of Durham will be making his final visit to the parish before retirement and the service will also include the renewal of confirmation and baptism vows.

CHANGES PLANNED: Marske Residents' Association will meet tonight to elect a committee and discuss proposed changes to the constitution. The meeting is at the White House, in Redcar Road, at 7.30pm.

CENTRE PRAISED: The Hill Street Centre, Middlesbrough, has won a judges' commendation in the small centre category of the Property Managers Association awards.