A music and arts festival held in Hartlepool proved to be such a success it is to have a mini-encore later this year.

Plans are being drawn up for a celebration of music concert in the Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool, on November 16.

The event builds on the response to last month's two-week festival, which attracted more than 300 competitors.

The festival was organised by Hartlepool music teachers Pat Rutter and Derryck Pinfield, and was supported by Hartlepool Borough Council.

Ms Rutter said: "The festival was a phenomenal success and the celebration of music promises to be an equally exciting and memorable event."

For more details about November's concert call Mr Pinfield on (01642) 357934.

* Music lovers in Middlesbrough have made their mark on a free festival taking place in the town this summer.

The organisers of Middlesbrough Music Live asked fans to email their suggestions for the line-up of the event on June 3.

Festival booker Graham Ramsay said he was inundated with replies and has now booked The Cooper Temple Clause to appear on the main stage before Wheatus.

"After carefully sifting through the replies, it emerged that The Cooper Temple Clause - stars of the festival in 2001 - were by far the most popular realistic choice," he said.

The festival, organised by Middlesbrough Council, will feature acts playing on seven stages across the town, from noon to 10pm.