Shoppers at Stockton’s traditional market will be able to pick up some last minute Christmas gifts and treats on Christmas Eve.

The Wednesday market is being brought forward by a day to avoid the Christmas Day. Customers will be able to purchase a variety of goods - from greeting cards, jewellery and clothes, to fresh flowers and produce - the bustling stalls have something for everyone.

The Friday market will pitch up as usual on Friday, December 27 but there will be no stalls on New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1.

FESTIVE FITNESS: Bookings are now being taken for a range of New Year sport and fitness sessions at venues across Hartlepool including Boxfit starting Tuesday, January 7, from 6.45pm to 7.45pm at the Headland Sports Hall costing £4.60 or £3.60 for an Active Card member. To book call 01429-236564.

POOL OPENS: Hartlepool’s Mill House swimming pool will re-open on Friday, December 27, following a scheme to install a boom to split the main pool in two. The council-run facility, re-opens at 7.30am for adult swimming only and at 10am for other users. It is then open as normal until Monday, December 30. The Mill House Leisure Centre closes at 4pm on Tuesday, 31 December, is closed on Wednesday, 1 January, and is open as normal from Thursday, 2 January. For further details telephone 01429-223791.

LOCAL ARTISTS: Hartlepool Art Gallery will be getting the New Year off to an exciting start with a joint exhibition of new work by two of the town’s artists. It will feature pieces by Robert ‘Bob’ Watson and John Edwin Wigston from Saturday, January 11, to Saturday, March 15. The Art Gallery, in Church Square, is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 5pm and entry is free. People are also welcome to attend a special preview of the exhibition on Friday, January 10, from 7pm to 9pm, when there will be short talks by the two artists.