It's a dilemma familiar to anyone accustomed to the hectic run-up to Christmas. Where to buy that perfect gift? A present that says something personal and, in these times of economic uncertainty, doesn't break the bank balance.

While the Ouseburn Studios Open Weekend ticks the solution box for the urbanites among us, Northumberland's Christmas Art Tour does the same for anyone who fancies combining their festive shopping commitments with a meander around the countryside.

Self-taught painter Mary Ann Rogers is one of a group of the county's most celebrated artists holding the fourth annual tour.

Police across Northumberland have joined a nationwide campaign to tackle crime at community level.

Their work for Not In My Neighbourhood week is intended to highlight work being done with the help of local partnerships.

Chief Inspector Michael Barton, of Northumberland Area Command, said: "Residents across the county should be used to seeing their neighbourhood officers out and about. but they may not always realise the range of work they do or have time to stop and speak with them.

A revamped and expanded heritage centre in Bellingham reopens on Friday.

Thanks to grants of nearly £50,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund and £10,000 from the Northumberland National Park Authority, a new gallery has been fitted out at Bellingham heritage and tourism information centre to house the Stannersburn Smithy, which has been relocated from Falstone.

People are being invited to bring apples from their gardens for identification.

An apple fair is being held from 10.30am to 4pm today at Wark Town Hall with apple games, apple products, displays and information.

Apple varieties on display will include White Melrose, Golden Noble, Newton Wonder and Worcester Pearmain.

A conservation charity received a cash windfall.

Northumberland Wildlife Trust was given a financial boost from Northumberland National Park's Sustainable Development Fund.

The money will allow it to develop its 'Gateway to the Wild' project at Kielder Water & Forest Park.