ARSONISTS are thought to have broken into a seaside chalet and started a fire that spread to neighbouring huts.

Firefighters were called to Seaton Carew beach, near Hartlepool, at about 11.10pm on Tuesday, when flames destroyed two chalets and badly damaged a further seven. Police also attended the scene and were yesterday investigating the cause. Two fire crews from Hartlepool extinguished the blaze.

SPONSORED WALK: Hartlepool and District Hospice is holding a four-mile sponsored walk on Sunday, at the Castle Eden Dene Walkway, Thorpe Thewles, to raise funds. Walkers are welcome to take their dogs, but they must be on leads. A free bus will be available, at 10am, from the hospice in Hutton Avenue, Hartlepool, returning early in the afternoon. Sponsor forms are available by contacting Lynne Wilkinson, on (01429) 288252, with a minimum sponsorship of £10 per walker.

BOOK SALE: Hartlepool Central Library is hosting a book sale this weekend. Hundreds of items, both literary and audio, will be up for grabs on Saturday, from 10am to 2pm, and Sunday, from 12pm to 2pm. The sale at the York Road Library involves old books and audio items that are being replaced with more up-to-date stock.

FEELING SAFER: Elderly residents in an area of Hartlepool are feeling safer and warmer, thanks to work by Hartlepool Borough Council, which has fitted UPVC doors to the rear of 70 bungalows in Throston. The £40,000 project has been carried out by the council's neighbourhood services department.

EARLY BIRD: Tees Valley Wildlife Trust has organised a guided walk around Portrack Marsh, Stockton, to watch local wildlife. Nature lovers should meet at the Tees Barrage car park at 6am. More details are available from (01642) 759900.

NEW SHOP: A bakery has opened in Wellington Square Shopping Centre, Stockton. The shop is the 111th Greggs to open in the region and moved from premises in Stockton High Street.