A BOY spent four days in hospital after being bitten by a stray dog while walking to a friend’s house after his school was closed due to last week’s severe weather.

As the friends cut through Tredegar Walk in Hartlepool the 11-year-old was attacked by a white, grey and black husky-type dog wearing a black collar with spikes at about 11.20am on Thursday, December 5. The injury he suffered was so serious he had to spend four days in hospital.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who knows the dog’s owner is asked to contact Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.

AUSTERITY PROTEST: A pre-Christmas protest against the Government’s austerity cuts is taking place in Middlesbrough tomorrow (Saturday). Members of the Teesside People’s Assembly, including people dressed as Santa and his elves will be meeting at Middlesbrough bus station at 10.30am. The protest is in support of the People’s Assembly Against Austerity ‘Can you afford Christmas?’ national day of action involving groups taking to high streets across the country.

WILLIAM TILLYER: The William Tillyer exhibition at mima includes a huge digitally manipulated watercolour inspired by the River Tees High Force waterfall. The display is the largest by a single artist since the gallery of modern art opened in Middlesbrough in 2007. The exhibition which rund until February 9, 2014, includes paintings, watercolours, sculptures and drawings. 

POLICE CHAT: The Park Neighbourhood Policing team will be listening to issues and questions raised by residents at Linthorpe Community Centre on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough at 6pm on Wednesday. No appointment is needed.

FESTIVE FAIR: A Christmas fair is being held at Beckfields Community Centre in Ingleby Barwick, Stockton, tomorrow (Saturday) between 1.30pm and 4.30pm. Santa Claus will be making an appearance at 3pm.

CAROL SINGERS: The Clare Singers will be presenting their annual Christmas entertainment at the Redcar East Community Centre on Durham Road, Redcar, from 3pm on Saturday, December 21. Admission is £4 for adults, £3 for concessions and £2 for under 19s payable on the door with proceeds going to the Teenage Cancer Trust.