PEOPLE looking for ideas for Christmas are being advised to try Stockton Borough Council's museums service.

Visitors to museums and galleries can pick up scores of gift ideas, as well as a few special presents.

The Green Dragon Museum, off Stockton High Street, is running an exhibition of photographs by Joe Cornish. Many local scenes are included and prints can be ordered in various sizes. Calendars and cards are also available.

Meanwhile, Billingham Art Gallery will host a week-long Christmas craft fair, from Saturday, December 2, to Saturday, December 9. There will be stalls offering everything from glass and pottery to embroidery and scarves. There will also be activities for youngsters.

Also on Saturday, December 9, Preston Hall Museum, Eaglescliffe, will be the venue for a Christmas fun day, with Santa and the Salvation Army on hand to keep visitors entertained.

Vistors can take part in the Preston Hall Pudding Hunt for a chance to win free pantomime tickets.

Preston Hall's Victorian photographer will be available to snap portraits in period costume.

For more details call the tourist information centre on (01642) 393936