CHILDMINDERS from around the region gathered at a training centre to receive awards.

The Bridge Training Centre, in Columbia, Washington, hosted the ceremony organised by the Washington Bridge Project and Sunderland's Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership to present certificates in childminding practice. The childminders were so impressed with the support they received that they have nominated their tutor, Carol Smith, training and development manager for childcare at Bridge, as Adult Education Tutor of the Year. For information on the childminding certificate, or pursuing a career in childminding, ring Carol or Jean on 0191-417 2445.

PLANT SALE: Carrville Methodist Church, in the High Street, Carrville, near Durham, stages a plant sale on Saturday, June 8, starting at 10am. There will also be craft, cake, sweets, "bid-a-bid" and refreshments' stalls. Admission is free, with proceeds going to the church building fund.

SCHOOL FUN: Newton Hall Infant School, Durham, will be getting in the spirit of the Golden Jubilee today when it stages a red, white and blue day that will feature a sponsored bounce to raise money for a new computer.

DOLL SHOW: A show featuring full-sized male dolls in search of their dream mates is coming to a County Durham venue. Catwalk by Bedlam Oz will appear at The Phoenix Arts Centre, Harelaw, Catchgate, next Thursday, from 6.30pm.

SUMMER FAIR: A summer fair will be held at Leadgate Community Centre on Saturday, June 8 at 2pm. There will be various stalls and everyone is welcome. Admission will be by donation and any money raised will go to St Ive's Church in Leadgate.

HATS OFF: Hats of all shapes and sizes are the subject of an exhibition at Easington Village. The Groundwork display, at the Discovery Centre, Seaton Holme, Hall Walks, runs until June 26. Seaton Holme is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm. Admission is free.

SNOW SHOW: The Austrian slopes will arrive at Durham's Gala Theatre next week in the form of John Godber's critically acclaimed West End hit, On the Piste. It comes as part of the award winning Hull Truck Theatre Company's UK tour, and will run from Monday to Saturday. Tickets are available from the box office on 0191-332 4041.

VISION ON: An exhibition and information day for the blind and partially-sighted will be held at County Hall, Durham, on Tuesday, June 25, between 10am and 4pm. It will have information on the latest products and services for the visually impaired. For details of free transport to the event call 0191-383 3326.

HERB TOUR: Durham Organic Gardeners' Association will be going on a guided tour of Hexham Herbs on Wednesday, June 12, at 7.15pm. They will meet at Chesters Walled Garden, Chollerford. The event costs £2.50. For details call (01740) 621504.