Child safety records scrutinised Children's services inspectorate Ofsted says a handful of English local authorities had "inadequate" child protection.
Cash for urban wildlife project A project to encourage people in urban areas in the North East to appreciate local wildlife is awarded £309,500.
Social sites aid bonfire safety Online social networking sites are used to promote a joint bonfire night safety campaign across the North East.
Seabirds threatened by oil spill More than 200 seabirds are affected by oil pollution spreading down the North East coast, animal welfare workers say.
Seabirds killed by oily pollutant Almost 100 dead seabirds are found on a stretch of North East coastline hit by a mystery oil-like slick.
Thursday: sleet, Max Temp: 3°C (37°F), Min Temp: -4°C (25°F) Friday: sunny intervals, Max Temp: 2°C (36°F), Min Temp: -1°C (30°F) Saturday: sunny intervals, Max Temp: 5°C (41°F), Min Temp: -1°C (30°F)
