A SERIES of free health programmes will be held each month at the Pioneering Care Centre, Newton Aycliffe.

The courses will run until December, thanks to funding secured by the Pioneering Care Partnership.

The next session, which will discuss speech and language therapy and demonstrate reflexology, takes place on Tuesday, July 29, from 10am to noon.

Topics planned for future sessions will include teenage pregnancy, cancer, social services and benefits.

Gill Macnab, the partnership's events and participation worker, said: "This is an excellent opportunity to help raise awareness and obtain information around a variety of health and well-being related topics, for all residents across Sedgefield borough."

For details of future sessions call (01325) 321234, minicom (01325) 313133, or visit the centre, off Burn Lane, Newton Aycliffe. The centre is on the following bus routes: 4, 4a, 4b, 13, 13a, 91, 91a, 92 and 93.

Booking is essential because places are limited