Live: Breaking news, traffic and travel across Teesside

The Evening Gazette's live breaking news blog brings you regular updates, pictures, video, tweets and comments covering the latest Teesside and North Yorkshire traffic, travel, weather, crime and council news for today, Friday 4 April, 2014.

You can contribute to the live blog by posting your comment below, and you can also tweet us @EveningGazette to share breaking news stories, pictures and opinions.

Our Teesside breaking news live blog begins at 07:00am every weekday and is updated throughout the day and into the evening.

Ban expresses concerns over Egypt death penalties

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has expressed his “strong concerns” over the mass death sentences delivered to hundreds of supporters of Egypt’s ousted President Mohamed Morsi.

Ban raised his concern over the issue during a Wednesday meeting with Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy in Brussels on the sidelines of a European Union-African summit.

“The secretary general conveyed to the minister his strong concerns regarding the mass death penalty sentences announced recently, as well as the detention of journalists,” Ban’s press office said in a statement.

Last month, an Egyptian court sentenced 529 supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood to death.

International bodies and human rights groups denounced the ruling as a grotesque example of the shortcomings of Egypt’s justice system.

The UN Human Rights Council recently expressed concern over the Egyptian security forces’ heavy-handed crackdown and the killing of peaceful anti-government protesters.

Egypt has been experiencing unrelenting violence since the country’s first democratically-elected president was ousted on July 3, 2013.

In November, the military-backed authorities passed a law banning all but police-sanctioned protests. Since then, hundreds of anti-government protesters have been jailed for breaking the law.

Figures show Egypt’s military-backed government has jailed nearly 16,000 people over the past few months.

Anti-government demonstrators have been holding rallies almost on a daily basis, demanding that Morsi be reinstated.

Rights groups say at least 1,400 people have been killed in the violence since the ouster of Morsi, “most of them due to excessive force used by security forces.”

DB/MAM/MHB

UN blasts Rohingya’s exclusion from Myanmar census

The United Nations has expressed concern over the exclusion of Myanmar’s long-persecuted Rohingya Muslims from the country’s first census in decades.

On Wednesday, the UN accused Myanmar of deviating from its commitment that the census will be exercised in accordance with international standards and human rights principles.

In a statement, the UN Population Fund said the exclusion of Rohingyas undermines the credibility of the data.

It has cited instances where state officials walked away from people with Rohingya ethnicity in the volatile western state of Rakhine.

“In its agreement with the United Nations…the government made a commitment to conduct the exercise in accordance with international census standards and human rights principles,” the UN statement read, adding, “It explicitly agreed with the condition that each person would be able to declare what ethnicity they belong to.”

On the eve of the census, a Myanmar’s presidential spokesman announced that anyone calling themselves “Rohingya” would not be counted.

Rakhine is home to about two million Rohingya Muslims, but they were not included in the 1982 citizenship law.

The country’s first UN-backed census in three decades is aimed at plugging an information deficit in the former junta-run country.

Latest reports have indicated that 99 out of 100 Rohingya families, who identified themselves as Rohingya, were not registered.

Over the past two years, hundreds of Rohingyas have been killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee after being targeted by Buddhist mobs.

Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar have been persecuted and faced torture, neglect, and repression since the country’s independence in 1948.

Myanmar’s government has been repeatedly criticized for failing to protect the Rohingya Muslims. International bodies and human rights organizations accuse the government of turning a blind eye to the violence.

JR/SS

'Upwardly' mobile casinos: The phenomenal rise of gambling on the go

While gaming and girls were the key drivers of the success of 3G, it's gambling that will be the success story of 4G

When third-generation wireless technology first entered our mobile stratosphere, ‘3G’ became more than just its abbreviated handle. Its very success was said to depend on three core elements: gaming, girls and gambling.

Whilst the former two have seemingly had their respective industry rise and fall, the final ‘G’ was somewhat slower off the mark. Just 13 years on and with 4G services looming on the horizon, mobile gambling is on the rise and looks set to soar.

Here we take a brief look at its phenomenal rise and consider where the industry will move from here.

Taking casinos online

As casinos first started to appear on our computer screens, the virtual gambling experience was somewhat different from its bricks-and-mortar counterpart. Of course, there were clear advantages such as the ability to play at any given time and in any attire.

However, slow connections, limited technology and infantile online gambling strategies saw minimal industry growth initially. Today’s online casino environment paints a very different picture. It’s fast, it’s interactive, it’s sociable and what’s more, it’s mobile.

More mobile

Thanks to fast paced advancements in smartphone and tablet technology, plus an ever expanding user market, mobile gambling is rapidly emerging at the forefront of the industry, with iOS and Android platforms supporting applications of outstanding quality.

Growth is continually recorded in mobile sports betting and National lottery participation, whilst industry giants such as UK casino site SuperCasino have launched applications that offer members all the benefits of their online platforms in a mobile package.

The advantages of these mobile applications are countless. World class graphics and in some cases, live game play streamed directly to your mobile device, recreate the thrill and excitement of an authentic casino experience. Increasing 3G connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspots enable game play almost anywhere on the go so you’re not limited by what you can do.

Easy money transfers allow for bets to be placed at any time with increased player security, while daily cash limits applied to an account encourage responsible gambling.

There is also the benefit of connectivity with social networking sites which offer a shared experience across multiple platforms.

Future predictions

So, where does the industry go from here?

Whilst official statistics from the UK Gambling Commission show that the real, concrete betting world still holds the highest market share, accounting for 51% of what is known as the gross gambling yield (GGY), participation in remote gambling has increased year on year since 2009, with a turnover of £20.7 billion between April 2012 and March 2013.

With the rollout of 4G (technically still only 3.9 technology but who’s counting?), mobile gambling looks set to become slicker than ever. This could increase the level of participation experienced and give players even more reason to try their luck on the World Wide Web – not to mention leaving the bricks and mortar casino world to carefully consider how to play its next hand!

NIA torturing minority youths in the name of probe: Kavita Krishnan

PATNA: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has donned political and communal colours and is torturing youths of the minority community in the name of investigations.

This was revealed by ML politburo member and All India Progressive Women’s Association (AIPWA) secretary Kavita Krishnan at a press meet after the party consulted few alleged terrorists arrested in Patna serial blasts. Some of the alleged terrorists were also present. “Most of the youths arrested are being forced to admit their involvement in the blasts,” Krishnan said, adding, “Muslim youths from Arwal district were detained by the investigating officers and tortured till they admitted to committing terrorist acts. Many such youngsters have narrated to us the horrid tales of torture.”

Maksood Alam, whose 19-year-old son Aslam Parvez was arrested by NIA in the Patna blasts case, said, “My second son Rustam Ansari and I were told by the officers to coax Parvez to admit his connection in the blasts. He was beaten and tortured in front of me and was kept in custody from March 5 to 30 without any documents.”

Alam was also present at the press meet.

Another youth Irfan Ahmad, who was also arrested, said, “Initially, the questioning was done in Jehanabad. Then I was called to Delhi where I was beaten up so that I could admit my connections in the bomb blasts.”

The ML leaders also alleged the NIA to be influenced by political outfits. “Aslam Parvez, who was arrested by NIA, was asked about his political affiliation by the investigating officers,” Krishnan said, adding, “Why should any investigating agency ask people which party they vote for?”

ML politburo member Dhirendra Jha, who was also present on the occasion said, “Earlier we had freed two youths of north Bihar – Meher Alam and Aftab Alam, from the NIA, who were accused of being involved in the Patna bomb blasts. We will take the matter to the court if needed.”

The party also plans to approach the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and National Commission for Minorities (NCM) for providing justice to the youths. “The investigating agencies should also be made answerable to the Parliament,” said the ML leaders

Fear of violence gripping CAR residents: Red Cross

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says the lack of security keeps the population in a constant state of fear across the Central African Republic (CAR).

Patrick L’Hote, the ICRC head of operations for Central and Southern Africa, said in Geneva on Wednesday that residents were being held hostage to pillaging, killings and sexual violence meted out by the warring factions.

“What is going on now between the communities is very difficult and puts the people in a very difficult situation. They fear for their life,” the senior ICRC official said, adding, “They are put under a lot of pressure during the day, but also during the night. And, this takes place in a country, which was already before the events in a state of extreme poverty.”

This comes as rights groups and international bodies have expressed serious concerns over the ongoing violence against Muslims in the war-ravaged African country.

The UN has described the displacement of the Muslims of the CAR as ethnic-religious cleansing.

The UN refugee agency has recently said it is prepared to help evacuate some 19,000 Muslims who are at risk of attack from anti-balaka Christian militia in the CAR.

“What we don’t want is to stand by and watch people being slaughtered,” United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) spokeswoman, Fatoumata Lejeune-Kaba, said on Tuesday.

The conflict in the CAR erupted after Christian militia launched coordinated attacks on the mostly Muslim Seleka group, which toppled the government last March.

Christian militiamen, however, have been targeting the Muslim population as a whole.

French and African peacekeepers are on the ground, but they have been unable to stop the violence and even in some occasions have been accused of killing Muslims.

So far, thousands of people are believed to have been killed and more than one million displaced.

JR/SS

Local Teesside football round-up: Steelies survive fightback to preserve top flight lead

JACK HATFIELD SPORTS TEESSIDE LEAGUE

ACKLAM Steelworks remain three points ahead at the top of the first division after surviving a late Thornaby Dubliners fightback to win 4-3.

Steelies looked set for a routine victory after Dean Talukder scored a 15th minute opener and Karl Lilly doubled the lead with a penalty.

Things got even better when Peter Snaith made it 3-0, and Matthew McQueeney added his 36th goal of the season 15 minutes from time.

But they were grateful to hear the final whistle in the end as three Dubliners goals in a nine-minute spell from James Hackett, Joe Carter and Matthew Allen made things interesting.

Whinney Banks YCC kept the pressure on leaders Acklam as they came from behind to blitz BEADS 4-1.

BEADS took the lead thanks to an own goal but Danny Lockwood soon levelled and Banks went into half time ahead thanks to Michael Shellard.

Lockwood went on to score his second of the game and 36th of the season and Ryan Slater got the fourth.

Banks have two games in hand on Acklam Steelworks, and there could be a potential title decider between the sides when they meet in four weeks’ time.

Northallerton Town are still 10 points behind Whinney Banks and three points further behind Acklam after a 6-2 victory over Fishburn Park.

Wayne Thompson, James Horsfield and Sam Vernalls gave Town a 3-0 lead before Liam Beckett pulled a goal back before half time.

Goals from Adam Pearson and Vernalls made it 5-1, and Vernalls scored his hat-trick goal after Jericho Keys had pulled a goal back.

Grangetown Boys’ Club bounced back from the previous week’s defeat by Acklam as they came from a goal down to win 3-1 at Redcar Newmarket.

Newmarket raced into the lead when Harry Shaw scored but Grangetown came galloping back in the second half.

Connor Bedingfield scored the equaliser, Danny Maloney put the visitors in front and Michael Wilson got their third.

Lingdale were big 7-1 winners at Great Ayton and found themselves five up with 20 minutes to go.

Sam Crooks and Paul Lyons both scored twice and Ben Crooks was also on target as they took a firm grip on proceedings.

Ayton responded and got the goal of the game from Ashley Woodier,

But Ben Crooks made it 6-1 and Lingdale’s 47-year-old manager Gary Bringloe came off the bench to score the seventh from the penalty spot.

Jamie Hewitt helped himself to a hat-trick as Nunthorpe Athletic beat basement club North Ormesby 4-1 to put six points between the teams.

Danny Riley scored visiting North Ormesby’s consolation.

Thirsk Falcons find themselves three points clear at the top of Division Two after they beat Kader 7-1 and Stockton West End lost 2-0 at Richmond Town Reserves.

West End conceded Matthew Lebira and Josh Allinson goals and were unable to convert pressure into end product as they lost the match and top spot and slipped down to second.

New Marske rebounded from their shock defeat at Kader to win 2-0 at Guisborough Globe and move into third place, five points behind West End and with two games in hand.

Sam Young gave New Marske the lead and Stuart Poulter notched their second as the Globe also had a player sent off.

St Mary’s College lost a tight game 2-1 at home to Yarm after taking the lead through Ben Cotts.

Ryan Dunn equalised and Danny Jones scored Yarm’s winner 10 minutes from time.

STOCKTON SUNDAY LEAGUE

STOCKTON Hardwick made the most of Castle and Anchor’s blank weekend as they moved two points behind the Division Two leaders with a 4-2 win against Storytellers United at The Tilery.

Hardwick struggled in the early going after starting the game with only 10 players, but eventually got to grips with it after getting up to full speed.

Their goalscorers were Lee Jordan (two), Shaun Coleman and Tommy Wright. Stephen Sudlow and Ian O’Neill replied.

Market Tavern continued their promotion push with a 5-2 win at home to Thornaby Sports and Leisure with two goals from man- of-the-match James Brodie-Myers, plus a goal apiece for Ahmad Mitoubsi, Martin Kilburn and Bradley Murray.

Michael Tye was at the double for Thornaby Sports and Leisure.

Hartburn returned to winning ways with a 4-1 win at home to Eaglescliffe Bazookas with goals from Andrew Jackson, Christopher Thompson, Mark Norster and Stuart Lane. Bazookas fired one back through Scott Buckton.

Elsewhere, St Mary’s College had a narrow 3-2 win away to Fairfield Sports and Social Club thanks to a hat-trick from man-of- the-match Craig McKinley.

Paul Lathan and Michael McDonnell replied for Fairfield.

Roseworth Social won 4-2 at Thornaby Roundel thanks to two Andrew Jones goals and one each from Carl Thompson and Ryan Hunnam.

Thomas Mason and Kieran Campbell scored for Roundel.

The Royal will face either Market Tavern or Norton WMC in the semi-finals of the Ian Gorman Memorial Trophy after beating top flight high flyers Thornaby Jolly Farmers 4-1.

Paul Cleary lit up the third round tie with a hat-trick, with Damien Lathan adding the other Royal goal.

Daniel Jones was on target for the Farmers.

Yarm side George & Dragon belied their rock-bottom status in the Premier Division as they held third-placed Rosegale in a pulsating 3-3 draw at Allens West.

Dominic Halliday capped his Dragon debut with a hat-trick following his transfer from Thornaby Cricket Club.

Substitute Stephen Kilpatrick struck twice for Rosegale, whose other goal came from Danny Earl.

Billingham The Kings climbed off the foot of the Division One table with a magnificent 7-0 win over a Port Clarence side who could only muster eight players.

Substitute Michael Doyle scored a hat-trick, with the rest of the Kings tally made up by Peter Conway, Matthew Ford, Peter Jeffreys and an own goal.

Billingham The Merlin moved up to fifth following a 2-0 home win against Layfield Arms with goals from Michael Young and Jon Ward.

Malleable and Billingham Low Grange shared 12 goals and the points in a hum-dinger of a 6-6 draw.

Sean Hugill and Marc Ozelton both netted twice for Malleable, whose other goals came from Jeffrey Illingworth and Stewart Carson.

Low Grange’s scorers were Matthew Wilshaw, Sam Walters and Richard Harrison.

REDCAR SUNDAY LEAGUE

IN the semi-finals of the AEC Trophy, Eston Ship Inn caused an upset as they came from behind to beat Ennis Square Social Club after extra time.

In the final they will meet Grangetown, who came from behind to beat Redcar Rugby Club with goals from Shaun Porritt, Andrew Donachie and Ross Smith.

In first division, Lakes Social Club entertained Clarendon Hotel and fell behind to two Luke Nicholson strikes.

The home side battled back and scored twice but as half time approached Clarendon went back in front as Luke Pearson scored.

The visitors scored twice more through Michael Heerin and Nicholson after the break.

Lakes battled back again and reduced the deficit to two but the visitors were not to be denied and scored twice more to seal victory with Heerin and Rhys Bevan netting.

Only two games were played in the second division but in one of those games

it was a battle for top spot as the two leading contenders, hosts The Livery and visitors Black Swan, went head-to-head.

In a hard fought game both sides looked for early supremacy before the home side broke the deadlock as Stuart Oswald fired home.

Stuart Poulter made it 2-0 before half-time and he added another after the break.

Black Swan pulled one back thanks to a superb Dean Wilson finish but The Livery held on to complete the double over their rivals.

ESKVALE AND CLEVELAND LEAGUE

Leaders Staithes drew 4-4 with fifth-placed Stokesley Sports Club after leading 4-0.

Both sides were missing several players but the hosts adapted better as Chris Harland (2), Ben Libbey and James Armstrong all scored.

But Stokesley kept plugging away, though, and eventually started to get back into the game.

Jamie Edwards, Isaac White and Mark Shimwell scored to reduce the lead to a single goal before Michael Croft grabbed the equaliser.

Lingdale United moved back into second place following a dramatic finish to their game against Hinderwell.

Hosts United took the lead just before the quarter-hour mark when a long throw from Andy Smith found Joe Ferguson who controlled the ball before slotting it home.

Within three minutes the lead was doubled as a good pass from Wayne Skelton found Ferguson, who again slotted past the keeper and 10 minutes later the lead was three as a cross from Brian Warrior from the right was headed home by Smith.

Hinderwell pulled a goal back through Andy Hall and then were awarded a penalty which was duly despatched by Gary Marsay to reduce the deficit to one.

Lingdale restored a two goal cushion just before half time as Smith scored from six yards.

Dan Stonehouse pulled one back for the visitors before Gary Marsay equalised. As the game entered the final minute Wayne Skelton fired the home side back in front and with virtually the last kick of the game Lingdale sealed their victory as Ferguson converted from the penalty spot.

The victory saw Lingdale close the gap to two points on league leaders Staithes with both teams having played the same number of games.

MSV SPORT TEESBOROUGH LEAGUE

CORRA FC were pushed all the way by Riverside B in the Hunter Cup before running out 3-2 winners in a tight and tense game.

The result was enough to ensure they finished top just ahead of Virginmedia and will perhaps earn them a slightly more favourable draw in the last eight.

It’s still all to play for in Group B after Eston Villa defeated Longlands 5-1.

They meet again this weekend in a last-gasp decider, with Villa only needing a draw to qualify as group winners.

In Group C, West Middlesbrough Academy have qualified as winners with a game to spare, with Stapleton Arms also progressing as runners-up.

Group D is still uncertain, as a player eligibility dispute could end up with the league’s management committee deciding the outcome of the group.

However, Ironopolis’s 8-3 win over Eaglescliffe could now be important, depending on the outcome of the inquiry.

In the Premier Division, Erimus defeated Stapleton Arms 2-0 to keep their faint hopes of finishing in third place alive.

But Corra FC, who currently sit in third place, have a better goal difference than their rivals heading in to both team’s final games.

In Division One, Justice

FC moved to within three points of current leaders Longlands with two games in hand.

But both teams have several games to play yet and are set to face each other in a little over two weeks’ time.

BATTLEZONE PAINTBALL LANGBAURGH SUNDAY LEAGUE

THE Cleveland were 3-1 victors over a depleted O’Connells side in Division One, where Middlebeck won 6-2 away at Village Park Rangers.

In Division Two, a brace from Josh Blackburn and a strike from Neil Greaves were just enough for Riverside to beat The Clarry 3-2 in a tight encounter.

Ashley Woodier fired six for The Globe as they romped to an 11-2 win at Marton Rovers.

There were braces for Ramage and Gibson, while Reevley also netted for The Globe as they continue their push toward the top of the table.

Acklam Green were also among the goals as they easily chopped down The Apple Tree 9-1.

Parklands also hit cruise control in Division Three as they demolished CCMI 14-1.

UK turned Malvinas into NATO nuclear base: Argentina

Argentine President Cristina Fernandez has accused Britain of turning the disputed Malvinas Islands, known as the Falklands to the British, into a nuclear base for NATO.

Fernandez made the remarks while addressing an event marking the 32nd anniversary of the beginning of the war with Britain over the islands on Wednesday.

“The truth about Malvinas is that it constitutes the biggest NATO nuclear military base in the South Atlantic. This is the truth they cannot keep hiding,” the Argentine president told war veterans and supporters during the event.

As a result, the islands become one of the “most militarized areas in the world,” with more “military personnel than civilians,” she said.

Argentina and the UK fought a 74-day-long war in 1982 over the islands. The conflict ended with the British side claiming victory.

Located about 480 kilometers (300 miles) off Argentina’s coast, the Malvinas Islands have been declared part of the British overseas territories since the UK established its colonial rule on the territories in 1833.

MN/MAM/MHB

Who's next for Stuart Hall? World champion waits for challenger

Stuart Hall's trainer Michael Marsden says the Darlington boxer’s next fight has yet to be decided

Stuart Hall’s trainer Michael Marsden says the Darlington boxer’s next fight has yet to be decided after online reports claimed he will face Anselmo Moreno in a unification clash at Newcastle Arena on June 6.

Marsden has confirmed that IBF champion Hall has been offered the fight against Panama’s WBA super world bantamweight title holder Moreno.

But he said a date and contract has not been finalised.

Hall also has a mandatory defence to fulfil, with Randy Caballero and Kohei Oba meeting in an eliminator in Japan tomorrow.

Hall retained his belt in anti-climactic fashion at Newcastle Arena last Saturday, when the first all-North-east world title fight ended in a second round technical draw after Martin Ward suffered a severe cut in an accidental head clash.

It was Hall’s first contest since December, when he ended the North-east’s 25-year wait for a world champion by defeating Vusi Malinga for the vacant IBF title.

“We’ve been offered the Moreno fight, and have various options, but at the moment nothing has been agreed,” said Rothwell-based former amateur and pro boxer Marsden.

“We are currently in discussion with our promotional team.”

Marsden did rule out one fight entirely, saying 34-year-old Hall will not be having a rematch with Jamie McDonnell on the undercard of Carl Froch-George Groves II at Wembley on May 31 due to conflicts of interest between TV channels.

Dennis Hobson-promoted Hall is a BoxNation fighter while McDonnell is with Eddie Hearn and Sky Sports.

Doncaster’s McDonnell beat Hall in a British, European and Commonwealth triple title fight in 2011.

Whoever Hall ends up boxing next, he is in no hurry to give up the belt.

“I’m massively determined to stay champion. There’s only me and a few other people who really know how far I’ve come,” he said in reference to his old party animal lifestyle while living in Ibiza.

“I’m living the life and doing my diet and everything correctly.

“I didn’t eat bread for eight weeks before the Martin Ward fight. All I ate was rice and quinoa.”

Hall said he would be happy to give Ward a rematch following the unfortunate end to their fight, but Ward’s 14-stitch cut and the champion’s obligations mean an early return is highly unlikely.

Successful healing permitted, Ward, 26, could make a first defence of his Commonwealth title on the next pro show at Sunderland FC’s Stadium of Light, being pencilled in for the first week of July.

Ward’s trainer Neil Fannan added: “What can you say about how the world title fight ended? That’s boxing.

“As soon as I saw the cut, I knew it was over. It was really, really bad.

“One of the doctors said he wouldn’t box again, but I wouldn’t go that far.

“Argie Ward had a grotesque cut in his second pro fight against John Paul Ryan, but it healed good as gold.

“Hopefully it’s the same with Martin, because he will have to earn a second world title shot.”

Tony Robinson and John Lewis’s latest Pride and Respect white collar show in conjunction with the EBF at Eston Sports Academy proved another hit.

As well as the featured bouts - which included wins for Chris Wood, James Spanswick and Damien Lavender - £2,190 was raised to send four-year-old kidney disease sufferer Marley Gill to Disneyland.

Redcar Bears team boss Jitendra Duffill not pressing panic button after dreadful start

But Duffill does say his Ecco Finishing Bears side must perform much better in tonight’s home curtain raiser against Scunthorpe

Redcar Bears team boss Jitendra Duffill is refusing to press the panic button despite a dreadful start to the new season.

But he says his Ecco Finishing Bears side must perform much better in tonight’s home curtain raiser against Scunthorpe in the Premier League Cup (7.30pm start).

The Bears were battered 57-37 at Berwick in the Tees Tweed Trophy on Saturday before crashing 60-29 at Newcastle the following night in the League Cup.

“Richard Lawson and Carl Wilkinson did well and Luke Crang showed some potential,” reflected Duffill, “but after that there wasn’t really much to cheer.

“I know it was the same for both sides, but the conditions at Newcastle were poor and we didn’t think the meeting should have gone ahead.

“Every one of our riders except Richard Hall had a crash so maybe the lads were a little over-cautious - we just wanted to get through the night with seven fit riders and fortunately we managed that.

“Saturday’s meeting was obviously our first of the year so the lads are going to be a bit rusty after the close season.

“So I’m not going to panic. We’ve only had two meetings and we’ve yet to ride at home, so it’s very early days.

“I’ll reserve judgement until we’ve had a few more meetings under our belt.

“If we’re still not performing then, that will be the time to address the situation.

“But we know we have to do a lot better tonight.

“It’s a must-win match - it’s vitally important we get off to a good start at home.

“One thing we particularly need to improve is gating. We can’t keep giving the other team a head start and expect to win meetings.

“But the lads have had the chance to blow away some cobwebs now so I feel sure we’ll see an improved performance against Scunthorpe.”

Tonight’s visitors have also endured a disappointing start to the season, losing 48-42 at home to Sheffield in their curtain raiser last weekend.

But they’ll have Aussie youngster Ryan Douglas back in their side and that will give them a big boost.

“He was riding probably a couple of points above his average at the end of last season,” said Duffill, “so they will be stronger with him back in the team.

“But this is a match we should win. There can be no excuses - we need to show what are about and what we can do.”

Castleford Castles take on Berwick Border Raiders in a second half Northern Junior League KO Cup mini-match.

BEARS: Luke Crang, Jan Graversen, Richard Hall, Richard Lawson, Hugh Skidmore, Aaron Summers, Carl Wilkinson.

SCORPIONS: Josh Auty, Ashley Birks, Ryan Douglas, David Howe, Thomas Jorgensen, Anders Mellgren, Matt Williamson.

VISIT <a href = 'http://ift.tt/1md60Qe'>http://ift.tt/1k2TrcJ; for a full match report and reaction later tonight.

And visit speedwayblog.gazettelive.co.uk to read Martin Neal’s In The Pits blog for a sideways slant on Redcar Bears’ season.

Redcar Bears No 1 Richard Lawson keeping his feet on the ground

Richard Lawson is refusing to get carried away after two outstanding performances in an otherwise bitterly disappointing opening weekend

New Redcar Bears No 1 Richard Lawson is keeping his feet on the ground, despite his stunning start to the season.

The 28-year-old Great Britain international produced two outstanding performances in an otherwise bitterly disappointing opening weekend for the Ecco Finishing Bears.

He was in double figures at both Berwick and Newcastle, and also top scored for parent club Lakeside in the Elite League on Friday night.

He’s already looking like the formidable spearhead the Bears have missed since Jason Lyons’ spell with the club and hopes are that he will achieve his aim of increasing his average this term.

But former Redcar Cub Lawson, who joined on loan over the winter after five seasons with local club Workington, is refusing to get carried away.

“It’s started off well but it’s early days yet,” he insisted. “Anything could happen.

“I’m just going to keep my head down and keep trying.

“I’m over the moon with how it’s gone so far. I just need to try and be consistent and stay injury-free. That’s the key, I think.”

After last week’s Tees Tweed Trophy wash-out, Lawson makes his home debut in this evening’s Premier League Cup clash with Scunthorpe at South Tees Motorsports Park.

“I got the call last week to say it was off and that it might be run on Friday,” he said, “and I was gutted because I was riding for Lakeside that night.

“So I was slightly relieved when that was rained off as well and I’m really looking forward to tonight.”

Peugeot presents an estate of grace

Peugeot's new 308 SW estate model will cost from £16,895 when it arrives in June

View gallery

• "


• "

Peugeot 308 SW

View gallery

Peugeot's new 308 SW estate model will cost from £16,895 when it arrives in June.

It continues a pattern that has seen every generation of the 300 series include an estate variant since the 304 back in 1969.

From launch the newcomer will be available with three petrol and five HDi diesel engines, all with the promise of class-leading fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

In fact the 308 is the first Peugeot to receive a new three-cylinder turbo petrol engine - the PureTech 1.2-litre e-THP with a choice of 110 or 130bhp.

Also available will be BlueHDi models, including a unit with emissions of 82g/km in the hatchback and 85g/km in the SW, plus next generation six-speed automatic gearboxes.

Four trim grades – Access, Active, Allure and Feline – are up for grabs in a car that has been completely redesigned to offer a sleek and sporty style.

And despite being a compact estate the car’s dimensions - 4.58m long and 1.47m high – are sufficient to provide ample space, versatility and practicality.

The French manufacturer says that the new SW’s boot capacity is class-leading and its rear seats are folded with a single action from inside the boot to provide a perfectly flat floor.

Weight-saving technology has resulted in the Peugeot being 140kg lighter than its predecessor, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Inside, the i-Cockpit is the same as that featured in the 308 hatchback and highlights Peugeot’s continued move upmarket.

Simple, intuitive and smart, it comprises a raised instrument panel, high centre console and 9.7-inch touchscreen.

There’s just a single button, then everything else – multimedia, airflow, sat-nav, heating – is controlled by touching the screen.

Pricing sees the PureTech 1.2-litre e-THP 110 five-speed manual Active model with Stop-Start open the range at £16,895, topping out at £25,145 for the 2.0-litre BlueHDi 150 six-speed Feline automatic with Stop-Start.

Volvo V60 D2 Business Edition

Volvo was ahead of the game when it came to naming estate cars. Cleverly and fashionably, the Swedes steered clear of conventional titles, choosing instead to use the letter V (...for Versatile) before the relevant number

View gallery

Volvo V60 D2 Business Edition

View gallery

Volvo was ahead of the game when it came to naming estate cars.

Cleverly and fashionably, the Swedes steered clear of conventional titles, choosing instead to use the letter V (...for Versatile) before the relevant number.

Meanwhile Audi opted for Avant, BMW picked Touring and Vauxhall went for the Sports Tourer.

At the end of the day, they are all estate cars with opening tailgates and a tad more space than saloons or hatches.

Carrying capacity isn’t really the chief motivation behind the sleek looking Volvo V60, although it will absorb an acceptable 430 litres of cargo with rear seats in place and 1,241 litres when they are folded.

Where the diesel-powered V60 D2 in Business form really scores is on economy without sacrifice to performance. And the oil-burner engine is a lesson in refinement and smoothness to most other makers of four cylinder diesels.

With a CO2 emissions level of 108g/km it can squeeze a genuine 55mpg out of a gallon in real-life driving – the official average figure is 68.9mpg.

The pared-down Business model is priced at a highly competitive £22,195 and even with a few extras such as rain sensors (£155) and metallic paint (£625) it represents a lot of car for the cash.

There’s room for five onboard and the front seats in ‘off-black’ textile are some of the most comfortable and supportive I have encountered in a sub-£30,000 car.

While the V60 doesn’t aim to be hugely sporty, its general level of competence, forgiving ride and secure front-drive handling make it an easy car for swallowing up the miles.

This quality is further helped by the overall lack of mechanical noise and one of the best manual gearboxes I have encountered in a Volvo. The six-speeder is slick and light with sensibly spaced ratios that suit relaxed cruising yet are well-matched to the substantial torque for fast, safe overtaking.

Further credit goes to the, 113bhp, 1,596cc engine for its tractability. It happily pulls strongly from 30mph in fifth. Performance of 0 to 60 in 10.7 seconds and a max of 118mph doesn’t sound much to shout about these days, but because the engine sounds so unruffled and sweet you tend to cover distances that bit faster and effortlessly. I would have preferred a bit more feel from the steering, though, which tends to insulate the driver rather than inform.

The fuel tank holds a generous 14.8 gallons which means that the effective range between visits to the pump can be more than 700 miles – great for Continental touring.

The dash and facia design has a touch of style to it with clear, uncluttered dials and switchgear. I’m less convinced by the ‘floating’ central panel, behind which you can store odds and ends – or in my case probably mislay them for months.

The latest V60 is a likeable and impressively economical holdall that delivers more substantially more driving satisfaction than might be expected.

FAST FACTS

Volvo V60 D2 Business Edition

Price: £22,195

Mechanical: 113bhp, 1,596cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 118mph

0-62mph: 10.7 seconds

Combined mpg: 68.9

Insurance group: 19

CO2 emissions: 108g/km

BiK rating: 16%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

Toyota Auris Touring Sports 1.6 CVT Icon

Touring Sports may sound like another fancy name for what we all know as an estate car, but in the case of the Toyota Auris it’s not far off the mark

View gallery

Toyota Auris Touring Sports 1.6 CVT Icon

View gallery

Touring Sports may sound like another fancy name for what we all know as an estate car, but in the case of the Toyota Auris it’s not far off the mark.

Having completed a nifty job in giving its compact hatchback line-up a fresh, more family-friendly appeal, the Japanese brand has really pushed the boat out with the Auris Touring Sports.

It is the first time an estate variant has been included in the Auris range, as well as the first model in its class to offer the option of a full hybrid powertrain.

While there are those who will appreciate the Touring Sports purely because of its low-slung style, the bottom line for many remains the ability to shift stuff with space to spare.

Short of opting for bigger, more expensive estates you won’t find anything more accommodating than the Auris, which is 285mm longer than its hatchback stablemate – all dedicated to extra loadspace.

But it’s the way that space is accessed and used that makes a difference.

For instance the Japanese brand’s Easy-Flat folding seat set-up means there’s no grappling with the rear seats - they flip down at the lightest of touches.

There’s also a dual-level boot floor, a two-way tonneau cover, roller-type luggage net, shopping bag hooks, roof rails, three 12V power outlets and a loadspace light.

And inside what’s a comfortable, well laid-out cabin there are the likes of a glovebox, door bins, sunglasses holder, coat hooks, coin box, four cup and four bottle holders, a sliding centre armrest with document holder and stowage space for small items in the dash and rear centre console.

Another, sadly rare, treat is that three rear passengers can travel in comfort – no hard, perched, centre position or transmission tunnel to hamper convenience here.

In fact the only disappointing aspect is that the dash area looks bland and some of the interior plastics feel a bit brittle.

British-built at Toyota’s Burnaston plant near Derby, the Touring Sports is available with a choice of 1.33 and 1.6-litre petrol engines and a 1.4-litre diesel plus the full hybrid.

The 1.6 unit in the tested, mid-range, Icon model offers decent performance, cruises comfortably at high speed and has an official fuel consumption figure of 47.1mpg with the CVT automatic gearbox, though my own return was below that at 37.1mpg.

I didn’t particularly like the CVT automatic with its spindly gear lever and would prefer the six-speed manual transmission, which is cheaper anyway.

Those opting for the hybrid, which starts at £21,095 in Icon trim, get a 1.8-litre petrol engine combined with an electric motor, giving a maximum power output of 134bhp, enabling 0-62mph in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 112mph. CO2 emissions are a class-leading 86g/km.

FAST FACTS

Toyota Auris Touring Sports 1.6 CVT Icon

Price: £19,850

Mechanical: 130bhp, 1,598cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via automatic gearbox

Max speed: 118mph

0-62mph: 11.2 seconds

Combined mpg: 47.1

Insurance Group: 14

CO2 emissions: 139g/km

BiK rating: 19%

Warranty: 5yrs/100,000 miles

Mitsubishi ASX 4 2.2 Diesel

A few short years ago none of us had even heard of a crossover - now you can hardly pull off your driveway without seeing one

View gallery

Mitsubishi ASX 4 2.2 Diesel

View gallery

A few short years ago none of us had even heard of a crossover - now you can hardly pull off your driveway without seeing one.

It’s doubtful, though, that even the folks at Nissan knew just how successful these hatchback-SUV mash-ups would be when they unleashed the Qashqai on an unsuspecting market.

Largely acknowledged as the trailblazer in the sector, the runaway success of the 'Qash-cow' has set the standards that all other crossovers must emulate.

There’s no shortage of car makers willing to try, either, as any marque worth its salt has launched its own rival.

Fellow Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi’s offering is the ASX, which hit the road in 2012 looking to capitalise on the company’s acknowledged expertise in the large SUV and 4x4 market with models such as the mighty Shogun and the Outlander.

Already boasting a fair dollop of the Outlander’s DNA, having been based on the same platform, the new-for-2014 2.2-litre diesel ASX is even more closely related to its bigger sibling.

That’s because the 147bhp power pack and the paired six-speed automatic transmission are lifted straight out of the seven-seater SUV.

The combination offers some extra grunt and versatility to a range which had previously made do with just 1.6-litre petrol and 1.8-litre diesel manuals.

Although the engine does clatter a little under acceleration, once warmed up it is fairly refined and offers plenty of pull throughout the rev range while the transmission is smooth and adaptable, making progress untroubled either in traffic or on the open road.

While engine noise is not too intrusive, a fair bit of road noise does make its way up from the wheels and there is some wind noise at motorway speeds.

The suspension is supple and set up for comfort which is well-reflected in the ride. This does result in a little body roll in corners but with stability and traction control and ABS brakes with brake assist on board as standard the ASX never feels anything less than assured on the road.

This range-topper also benefits from Mitsubishi’s electronic all-wheel drive system with three traction modes, toggled between via a simple button beneath the gear lever.

Two-wheel drive is the default setting and delivers power just to the front wheels for nimble driving and maximum fuel economy. In four-wheel drive, torque is transferred between front and rear wheels depending upon the prevailing conditions and four-wheel drive lock splits power evenly between front and rear for better traction on more difficult surfaces.

There’s plenty of other top-end kit here including a Kenwood integrated sat nav and stereo with touchscreen controls, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, climate control, push-button start, reversing camera and parking sensors, privacy glass, front fog lamps, 17-inch alloys, cruise control, heated front seats and leather upholstery.

The typically raised SUV-style driving position offers a commanding view of the road for the driver who, with an electronically adjustable seat, should have no trouble finding a comfortable position.

The panoramic glass roof, new for 2014 with ASX 4 models, lets light flood in and accentuate the impressive space in the cabin.

There’s plenty of room for five adults and those in the back won’t be cramped for head or leg room unless they’re the type of folks who live at the top of beanstalks.

There are plenty of convenient storage cubbies and cup and bottle holders and the boot, at 416 litres, should handle most family needs. The 60/40 split rear seats fold down for extra load space if needed and there’s a ‘ski-hatch’ to carry longer items as well as some concealed storage under the floor.

There are still some hard, scratchy plastics about for a flagship version but everything is well screwed together and should withstand the rigours of day-to-day family use and abuse.

Add in a hefty price cut across the whole range, thanks to an improvement in the exchange rates with the Japanese yen, and a softer new look with a less aggressive nose and the ASX is worth considering for those after a crossover but, perhaps, looking for something a little less obvious than the mainstream choices.

FAST FACTS

Mitsubishi ASX 4 2.2 Diesel 4WD auto

Price: £23,899

Mechanical: 147bhp, 2,268cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 6-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 118mph

0-62mph: 10.8 seconds

Combined mpg: 48.7

Insurance group: 20

CO2 emissions: 153g/km

Bik rating: 25%

Warranty: 3yrs/unlimited miles

Mazda3 2.0 Hatchback 165PS Sport Nav

Car manufacturers are forever dreaming up quirky names and labels for features or characteristics on their vehicles.

View gallery

Mazda3 2.0 Hatchback 165PS Sport Nav

View gallery

Car manufacturers are forever dreaming up quirky names and labels for features or characteristics on their vehicles.

Some are pointless words that after a few years just disappear into the ether, others however are here to stay.

And two prime examples of the more successful titles are featured on the Mazda3.

The first is KODO – Soul of Motion – which defines the cars curvaceous and aerodynamic styling.

And the second is SKYACTIV which is a technology that Mazda introduced on its CX-5 which delivers a no-compromise combination of dynamic handling whilst achieving excellent fuel efficiency and low carbon emissions.

And the Mazda3 seems to have it all.

For starters, it looks amazing from any approach thanks to sleek streamlining, 18-inch alloys, privacy glass, bi-xenon headlights and more.

And there’s a wealth of technology to be explored in the sporty, elegant and modern-looking interior.

The light stone leather seats are exceptionally comfortable and can be heated to beat off the chill.

There is a seven-inch colour touchscreen and most of the car’s many functions can be controlled via a dial that is conveniently positioned just behind the gearstick.

Creature comforts include dual-zone air conditioning, a nine-speaker Bose surround sound music system which is compatible with modern media devices, head-up display, sat nav, Bluetooth, rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing headlights, cruise control and plenty more besides.

There is ample room for four adults – five at a slight squeeze - to travel in comfort with lots of leg, head and shoulder space in the back.

And the generously-sized boot can be increased in size thanks to 60:40 split-folding rear seats.

Despite combined fuel economy figures of 48.7mpg, the Mazda3 is certainly not lacking in bite or excitement. The power delivered through the 2.0-litre 165ps petrol-driven engine seems endless and acceleration through the six-speed manual gearbox is nice and smooth.

In fact, driving the car seemed almost effortless and the great all-round visibility is another bonus. There is very little road surface noise even at higher speeds and the road-holding is flawless.

In and around town, the Mazda3 was nice and agile and easy to manoeuvre. Then out on the faster roads, it cruised to motorway speeds with ease.

There is even a gear shift prompter to help maximise economy along the way. One factor that might take a little getting used to is the instrumentation. The main dial is a rev counter with a much smaller digital speedo at the bottom or via the head up display.

The car is also kitted out with a comprehensive range of safety features, including dynamic stability control, traction control, hill hold assist, numerous airbags and a safety pack costing £700 which introduces smart city brake support, lane departure warning system, high beam assist and rear vehicle monitoring.

All in all, the Mazda3 is quite a car. It may not have the bells and whistles that some models feature, but it certainly goes about its business in a quietly confident and most enjoyable manner.

FAST FACTS

Mazda3 2.0 Hatchback 165PS Sport Nav

Price: £21,620

Mechanical: 165ps, 1,998cc, 1,998cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox

Max speed: 130mph

0-62mph: 8.2 seconds

Combined mpg: 48.7

Insurance group: 22

CO2 emissions: 135g/km

BIK rating: 22%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

Subaru XV 2.0 SE Premium Lineartronic

Subaru's XV faced a pretty tough challenge when it roared onto the roads in 2012

View gallery

Subaru XV 2.0 SE Premium Lineartronic

View gallery

Subaru's XV faced a pretty tough challenge when it roared onto the roads in 2012.

Charged with broadening the Japanese car maker’s appeal to a much wider audience it was up against pretty stiff competition in the mainstream compact crossover marketplace.

Previously Subaru had been most noted for it’s performance models such as the Impreza, now known as the WRX and due to reappear on UK roads any time now, or its worthy, no-nonsense family wagons such as the Forester and Outback.

In typical crossover fashion, the XV aims to combine the sporty styling and handling of the Impreza with the practicality of the likes of the Outback and has, it would seem, got off to a reasonable start.

“The Subaru XV has proven popular with buyers looking for a rugged but stylish compact crossover that can take on all conditions,” said UK managing director Paul Tunnicliffe.

For 2014 a number of tweaks have been made aimed at improving refinement, ride, handling, safety and cabin quality.

The exterior styling remains unchanged save for a couple of new colour options, but the sporty and rugged looks are still bang up to date with a muscular stance, plenty of road clearance, prominent roof bars and chunky black cladding all suitably robust looking. Some very distinctive alloys add the finishing touch.

The choice of power trains has been streamlined, though, and the 1.6-litre petrol-powered version is no longer available.

That leaves 2.0-litre diesel or petrol options paired with a six-speed manual transmission or the 2.0-litre petrol-powered automatic which I drove – a combination which provided some punchy acceleration and decent pace.

The official stats say it’ll take you 10.7 seconds to get from a standstill to 62mph, but pulling away from the lights it feels quicker and there is a pretty good response when you ask for a little more zip on the move.

To get the best out of it though, you will need to rev the engine hard as the six-speed Lineartronic transmission has a tendency to become hesitant if you are less than decisive with the gas pedal.

There’s always the option to intervene with the steering wheel mounted flappy paddles if you think it’s being too sluggish – but I only had to resort to this a couple of times during a week behind the wheel.

Subaru’s acknowledged expertise in all-wheel drive technology is one of the XV’s unique selling points and, unlike other crossovers, it is only available as a 4x4.

This, coupled with the extra ground clearance, offers some light off-road potential and should stand you in good stead in the winter but on a day-to-day basis it also ensures impressively solid grip and traction.

Add Subaru’s equally renowned handling and improvements to the power steering, and the XV is an enjoyable and engaging car to drive with impeccable body control and road manners.

The pay-off for this, though, is a firm ride and despite some modifications to the suspension, you will clatter a little over potholes and rough surfaces.

Upgrades to the soundproofing have been more successful and unwanted engine and road noise in the cabin is kept down to acceptable levels.

Many of the interior fixtures and fittings have also been spruced up and the quality does feel better, although there is still a lot of hard, scratchy plastic around.

The leather upholstery on my SE Premium trim car looks and feels the part and everything seems solidly put together and more than capable of standing up to the rigours of family life.

Space is also more than adequate for the family with good head and legroom all-round, room enough for three in the back, plenty of oddment storage and a good-sized boot.

Heating and aircon controls are large and straightforward to use but the infotainment/navigation system on this range-topper has quite a small touchscreen – with small icons and fiddly buttons making it hard to use on the move.

Despite this, the kit levels are impressive with all models getting dual-zone climate control, a reversing camera, push-button start, Bluetooth connectivity and automatic lights and wipers.

There is no compromise on safety, either, with ABS brakes, seven airbags and stability control all standard and the XV not only boasts the top five-star Euro-NCAP crash test rating but also an impressive 90 percent safety rating for child occupants.

Overall, the improvements mean the XV is still very much carrying the fight to its crossover rivals, and will especially appeal to those who insist on the extra peace of mind of all-wheel drive.

FAST FACTS

Subaru XV 2.0 SE Premium Lineartronic

Price: £25,495

Mechanical: 150ps, 1,955cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via 6-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 116mph

0-62mph: 10.7 seconds

Combined mpg: 42.8

Insurance group: 22

CO2 emissions: 153g/km

Bik rating: 23%

Warranty: 5yrs/100,000 miles

‘More than 150,000’ killed in Syrian conflict

Istanbul : More than 150,000 people have been killed in Syria since the conflict began in March 2011, the Syrian Observatory for Human rights said in a new figure released Tuesday.

The monitoring group said it had documented the deaths of 150,344 people, 51,212 of them civilians, including nearly 7,985 children. The number also included 37,781 armed opposition members killed in fighting, including jihadists from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front. Regime forces made up 58,480 of the new toll, including more than 35,000 soldiers had also been killed. The Observatory added that 364 members of Lebanon’s Shiite Hezbollha movement were killed. The identities of 2,871 people remain unknown.

The conflict in Syria began in March 2011 when Bashar al-Assad’s regime began to crack down on peaceful anti-government demonstrations which saw protestors killed. Part of the opposition took up arms and the conflict quickly spiral into a civil war

Onesie Wednesday at Barley Fields Primary for World Autism Awareness Day

Barley Fields Primary School pupils each donated £1 to swap their uniforms for a 'Onesie Wednesday'

View gallery

Ian McIntyre

Barley Fields Primary School Onesie Wednesday for charity

View gallery

Youngsters and staff at a Teesside school stepped into their comfort zones to support World Autism Awareness Day.

Barley Fields Primary School pupils each donated £1 to swap their uniforms for a “Onesie Wednesday” in support of eight Autism sufferers in the school - including Madeleine Grainger.

Nine-year-old Madeleine was diagnosed with autism four years ago, and also has mutism - an anxiety disorder that stops her from speaking.

Her mum, Stephanie Grianger, 37, from Ingleby, joined in the fun and sported her polar bear onesie at Batleys Cash and Carry, in Stockton, where she was selling raffle tickets and cakes.

“Today is about raising awareness,” said mum-of-three Stephanie, whose eldest son Chris, 17, is also autistic.

“I want people to not only hear the word but to understand the actual meaning of it. My children appear normal, and people often assume they have a bad attitude, but it’s not.

“It is the fact they take longer to process and respond to certain situations. Today is about finding out what the word autism means and learning about it. Any funds raised in the meantime is a bonus.”

The National Autistic Society is the UK’s leading charity for people affected by autism and it supports 1,378 adults through social and independent living.

Onesie Wednesday aims to encourage people across the country to show their support for anyone on the autistic spectrum by “being different” and wearing a onesie to work or school.

Funds were also being raised for the British Heart Foundation, in honour of three-year-old Evie Clasper, from Ingleby, who is awaiting a vital heart transplant.

Nine-year-old Ellie Stolweather, was part of the organising team who arranged cake and book stalls throughout the day.

She said: “We have spent a long time arranging everything and it’s been stressful at times, but we have had so much fun.

“It is really important to raise awareness for autism, because it is something that can go unnoticed. And we wanted to help the British Heart Foundation on behalf of Daisy in Year 1 who is sisters with Evie. It’s good to know we are supporting charities that help to change peoples lives too.”

Deputy head teacher Caroline Taylor said: “we are tremendously proud of the efforts of the children involved. They have worked together to organise the event.

“As a school we welcome and value the social awareness our children have and commend their efforts in constantly thinking how they can improve the life of others.”

The school raised £626 which will be shared between the National Autistic Society and the British Heart Foundation.

Middlesbrough tech start-up acquired by top UK event publishing company

Middlesbrough's EventSneaker has been snapped up by one of the UK's biggest event publishing platforms.

A Middlesbrough technology start-up has been snapped up by one of the UK’s biggest event publishing platforms.

EventSneaker, based in the town’s Boho One building, is an innovative online marketing tool. Bosses say it saves event organisers time and money by telling them how many sales a single Tweet - and each of their other online services - has generated.

The company, launched last summer by entrepreneurs Mark Stephenson and Elliott Perry and funded through Teesside University’s business accelerator Searchcamp, has been acquired by London-based evvnt.

Since its launch, EventSneaker has gained a portfolio of clients including Exposure Events and Sunderland Live and it was awarded partner status by online ticketing giant Eventbrite after just three months.

It has also just started working with the TFM Soundworks venue on Linthorpe Road.

Mark and Elliott say theirs is currently the only technology that tracks social media activity through to a ticket sale, helping event organisers understand how effective their online communications are.

Mark said: “You can get 10,000 people on to your website, that’s no good unless anybody buys a ticket.

“We allow event organisers to review their return on investment for marketing. We see how many sales you can get to your website, we show them where they’re coming from.”

EventSneaker’s deal with evvnt, an online publishing tool that allows event managers to reach an audience of millions, came about following a chance meeting between Mark and evvnt founder and CEO Richard Green at a conference last month.

Mark added: “We are delighted EventSneaker is going to become part of the evvnt package. Evvnt is a publishing service that allows event managers to promote their event across hundreds of websites and apps at the click of a button.

“It makes sense that incorporating EventSneaker’s tracking software into this process will allow customers to not only reach a wider audience, but also measure the effectiveness of the messages and platforms being used.”

Richard said: “The ethos of evvnt and EventSneaker are very similar. After running a quick trial, we decided that evvnt would completely absorb the EventSneaker technology and begin rolling out the software.”

Eventsneaker will initially continue to operate as an independent company, providing the same service to its current customers until the software is fully incorporated into evvnt.

As part of the deal, Elliott and Mark will now move into new roles in the evvnt team, which employs 70 people worldwide.

Elliott, 23, said: “It feels like the right time to take it to the next level.”