TIME-WASTERS, including children, are costing Tyneside fire services more than £1m a year, the Chronicle can reveal. An investigation has found that more than 10,000 fires have been deliberately lit in the last two years – costing the taxpayer millions. Meanwhile, Tyne and Wear Fire service has also had to deal with two hoax calls… Read More Hoax calls costing £1m a year – Joint by-line with Sophie Evans

FORMER Toon striker Michael Chopra’s ex-wife pleaded exceptional hardship against a speeding ban and revealed the player is on the verge of bankruptcy. Heather Swan made the claim when she appeared in the dock last week facing a driving disqualification. At Newcastle Magistrates’ Court she claimed that ex Chopra, who also played for Sunderland, is… Read More Chopra’s ex-wife pleads hardship over driving ban