RUGBY TRY: A rugby club is launching a player recruitment drive aimed at encouraging adults to take up the sport or give it another try.

Acklam RUFC is holding a free social training session for potential players on Wednesday, January 8 at 7pm at their Talbot Park base in Easterside, Middlesbrough. The session is open to anyone aged 17 and over.

Anyone interested should call Mike Dickons on 07961 651003, club manager Mark Collins on 07519 733539 or email acklamrufc@gmail.com.

FESTIVE HAMPER: A Middlesbrough shopper won a full Christmas hamper from the Co-operative supermarket in Normanby.

Michelle Bullen, who lives in Normanby, won a festive food hamper, packed with everything needed for a family Christmas dinner including a turkey, sparkling wine, mince pies and a Christmas pudding.

CIVIC NOMINATIONS: Stockton Council is again calling for nominees for its annual civic awards.

The awards honour local individuals, organisations and businesses who have made a difference to their community. Categories include young people, service to community, the green award and the carer/foster carer award.

For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/civicawards or pick up a nomination form from the Mayor’s Office, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, Stockton-on-Tees.

The closing date is February 21 and awards will be presented at the council’s AGM on April 2.