Live acts performing at the Quakerhouse pub in Darlington this week include Dave Cadman and Friends on Monday January 20, On the Rocks on Wednesday, January 22 and Willow Creek on Sunday, January 26.

RUN IN: Darlington sessions invite runners of all abilities to improve their fitness with the help of qualified coaches. The sessions start from the Dolphin Centre on Mondays at 7pm and from the South Park Clock Tower from 10.30am on Saturdays. Booking is not necessary. Each session costs £2 and is suitable for those aged 16 and over.

SYSTEM DOWN: Darlington Borough Council’s payment system will be upgraded on Tuesday January 21. During that day, residents will not be able to make payments online or over the phone. Payments can still be made at post offices, Payzone outlets, the Dolphin Centre and using the Girobank plastic card system. Systems will resume from Wednesday January 22.

OPEN MIC: An open mic night for authors will be held at Darlington’s Voodoo Cafe on Thursday, January 30. The event, which takes place from 7pm, offers a forum for writers to read their material to a live audience. Entrance is £3. For more information, email deangriss@btinternet.com.

MONEY RAISED: Keep fit enthusiasts raised £500 for Macmillan Cancer Care by keeping active all year. Dance and exercise class members at KFA Moves in Darlington raised the funds throughout 2013 with a variety of events including a sponsored walk, silent auction, card sale and raffles.

FILM CLUB: Kids’ classic Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, about two teens who go back in time to prepare a history presentation, will be shown by Darlington Film Club on Monday January 20 from 6pm. Entrance is £1.50 and includes free popcorn.

ABBA TRIBUTE: Counterfeit Abba will pay tribute to the band’s classic hits when they play Cockerton Band Club on Saturday February 22. Tickets are now on sale and cost £6 in advance or £8 at the door. They can be bought from bar staff or by calling 07977-170534.