A pre-school playgroup takes place at the Lanchester Community Centre every morning from 9.15am to 11.15am during term time.

A Tiny Tots session for youngsters up to two years old also runs on Wednesdays and Fridays between 9.15am and 10.45am.

GET FIT: Fitness sessions to help athletes improve their transition from cycling to running in triathlons in a gym environment are taking place at The Belle Vue Leisure Centre in Consett on Tuesdays at 7pm. Admission is £3.90.

PLAY CARDS: Lanchester Bridge Club meets every Tuesday evening from 6.45pm to 9pm and regularly runs classes to teach new members. For more information contact janvasey@aol.com.

JAZZ PIANO: Durham-born jazz pianist Paul Edis is being featured as part of Durham Gala Theatre’s lunchtime concert series on Friday, January 17 at 1pm following the release of his new album and appearance on BBC Radio 3. Admission is £4. Tickets can be booked by calling 03000-266-600.

DOG CLASSES: Dog Training sessions are being run at Lanchester Community Centre from 10am to 12pm on Sundays by Vicky Walsh a member of the Association for Pet Dog Trainers. For more information call 0191-4102325 or email enquiries@haveagooddog.co.uk

YOUTH FITNESS: A state-of-the-art youth fitness facility for those aged eight to 12 has opened at Belle Vue Leisure Centre, Consett. The gym is open weekdays between 4pm and 6.30pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 12pm. Admission is £2.10. For more information call 01207-218151.