PEOPLE planning fireworks parties are being offered early advice this year by Darlington Borough Council.

Its public protection team has produced a leaflet which provides help on ensuring fireworks and bonfire parties do not disturb others.

The council is sending copies of the leaflet to shops in the borough licensed to sell fireworks and asking shopkeepers to display them. Anyone wanting a leaflet can telephone (01325) 388553.

CIVIC MEETING: Darlington Civic Trust plans to hold a public meeting to review the council planning process. The event at the Friends Meeting House, Skinnergate, next Wednesday, at 7.30pm, will explain ways in which the trust can influence planning decisions. The winner of a competition to design a logo for the trust will also be announced.

VET TALK: A talk on first aid for dogs will be held at Northlands Methodist Church, Darlington, next Wednesday, at 7.30pm. Peter Ehrlich, a partner at the Grange Veterinary Hospital in Darlington, will give the talk. Funds raised will go to the Yorkshire Terrier Rescue and Rehoming Society. For details call (01325) 465191.

NEW COURSE: Darlington's Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College has re-introduced AS sociology to its adult evening class programme. The course runs on Mondays, from 6.30pm to 9pm, until June. To enrol visit the college in Vane Terrace or telephone (01325) 461315.

RESIDENTS' STALL: Darlington Residents' Panel will have a stall at the town's outdoor market from 9am to 5pm on Monday. People are invited to visit to find out more about the group.

CHILDREN'S EVENT: Stories, songs and quizzes will be on offer at a week-long series of events for children at the Bethesda Gospel Hall, in King William Street, Darlington. Sessions will run from 6pm to 7pm, from Monday, September 29, to Friday, October 3.

MATHS AWARD: Alan John Keeney, from Darlington, has been awarded a prize by the Institute of Mathematics and Its Applications. Mr Keeney was nominated by the University of Northumbria where he received a BSc honours degree in mathematics. He will receive a certificate and a year's free membership of the institute.

TREE FELLING: An application to fell three trees at Danby Lodge, in Ashcroft Road, Darlington, has been submitted to Darlington Borough Council.

FLOWER FESTIVAL: A flower festival at Hurworth Methodist Church, near Darlington, will be opened by North-West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong on Friday, October 10, at 7.15pm. The festival will run until Sunday, October 12. For details telephone (01325) 721746.

DRAMA FESTIVAL: The Sedgefield Drama Festival is being held from next Tuesday to Saturday. Tickets are available from Selections, any drama group member, or by calling (01740) 620091.