A MAN sustained a broken arm and severe bruising after he tackled two youths who he thought were trying to break into his car.

The 43-year-old, who does not wish to be identified, confronted the youths in Holt Street, Hartlepool, at 2.50pm, on Saturday. One of them knocked him to the ground and kicked and punched him about the face and body before running off. The attacker is described as white, 6ft, aged about 20, and of slim build. He was wearing dark clothing and a dark baseball cap. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (01642) 326326.

HERO NEIGHBOUR: A neighbour rescued a 24-year-old man after a fire broke out in the bedroom of his flat in Ingoldsby Road, Middlesbrough. Firefighters from South Bank believe a discarded cigarette might have started the blaze, which took place at noon on Saturday. Fire crews praised the alert actions of the neighbour who helped the man outside and shut the door to contain the blaze.

HOUSE BLAZE: A man who collapsed after suffering smoke inhalation when he left some food in the oven in the early hours of Saturday was rescued by Middlesbrough firefighters. They found the 48-year-old behind the door of his flat in Park Road North. He was taken by ambulance to Middlesbrough General Hospital.

CASH HELP: Voluntary organisations in Teesside are being encouraged to apply for National Lottery money. Every month, surgeries are held at Stockton Voluntary Development Agency, where groups can get advice and ideas on applying for money. To take part, call 0191-255 1133, and to obtain an application form, call 0845 791 9191.

CLEAN OUT: A Teesside hotel is offering a workshop to help people become healthier. The three-hour course, at the Tall Trees Hotel, Yarm, is on Saturday, January 25, from 10am. Places cost £35. To take part, contact (01325) 722803.

CARD GIFTS: Anyone with unused Christmas cards is asked to give them to staff at Stockton's Asda store. They will be passed on to local charities.

BIN BLAZE: Firefighters were called to a fire at a clothes recycling bin at Sainsbury's store, in Durham Road, Stockton at 3pm on Saturday. The clothes were badly damaged.