Joel Ineson died taking part in an open water swim at Hetton Lyons Country Park, a report says.

It follows a 2022 probe into attempts to find a new CEO to lead Teesside's two hospital trusts.

The annual event sees Easter treats given to children in hospitals in County Durham and Teesside.

Volunteers say the same group of vandals keep targeting The Flower Patch in Middlesbrough.

The council says the changes aim to reduce traffic, but some have called them "disproportionate".

Jake Adams says he often struggles with loneliness after being diagnosed with the incurable disease.

Hartlepool wants to become a film industry hub but its new facilities could boost the whole region.

Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick says the side's season "is still alive" despite a disappointing 2-1 loss to Sheffield Wednesday.

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris is pleased with his side's application despite a 1-0 defeat to Blackburn.

Those injured in the crash in Sunderland were taken to hosptal, the ambulance service says.

Captain Jonny Bairstow scores an unbeaten 86 as their Championship game against Durham ends in a draw at Chester-le-Street.

Restoring the line will provide new train links to 100,000 people, according to plans.

One neighbour is said to have a bucket full of balls that have gone into her property.

Martin Emmerson
BBC Radio Newcastle

Durham knew their chances of bowling out Yorkshire were already tough because of the loss of Paul Coughlin to a side strain.

Now it's emerged Brendan Doggett is unable to play any further part after hurting his ankle in the morning warm-up. I am told it is a precaution, but it means more overs having to be shared by the likes of Ben Raine and Matthew Potts.

With winter signing Sam Conners unavailable because of injury and suggestions Potts will not be available at Worcester on Friday, due to England restrictions, I am wondering who they are going to field in their bowling attack at New Road?

As for this game? Well, it appears to be drifting towards an inevitable draw, with bad weather not too far away.

The driver of the car remains in custody after the Hartlepool crash, Cleveland Police says.

Father Marc Lyden-Smith says Francis brought Sunderland victory after holding the team jersey.

The officer is found guilty of gross misconduct over five allegations heard by a misconduct panel.

Martin Emmerson
BBC Radio Newcastle

I am not sure how much play we will see in CLS today. My light meter tells me we are already down to about 200 lux and that's when the lights would normally be on.

They haven't switched them on yet but I expect to see them cranked into action before play starts. There have been a few spots of rain around and the umpires are out assessing the situation.

Even with the lights on, "bad light" may well be an issue.

We have already lost 40 overs in the game because of the light and if they do get started on time then Durham need to bowl Yorkshire out before lunch, which is easier said than done.

But, from about 2.15pm some serious rain is due. The sort of rain which will end the game as a draw.

Durham County Council is considering protection orders for other trees in the area.