A CHARITY which helps elderly people to live independently is celebrating its first anniversary - and looking for new volunteers.

The Middlesbrough Live at Home scheme, run by Marton Methodist Church, offers a befriending service to older people who are isolated, lonely or unable to get out and about. To find out more about the scheme or to become a volunteer call (01642) 319537.

CRUSE MEETINGS: The Guisborough branch of Cruse Bereavement Care is offering an eight-week series of group meetings supported by bereavement counsellors for people who have been recently bereaved. For further information call (01287) 610734. The Cruse office is open Monday 10am until 2pm and Thursday 2pm until 4pm. There is also an answerphone service.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST: Representatives from hospitality and catering businesses will be able to enjoy a hearty breakfast at Middlesbrough College next Tuesday as part of a hospitality forum to show the courses and facilities available at the college. The forum starts at 8.30am at the college's Kirby campus, in Roman Road. For more information call Chris Mann on (01642) 333260.

MONEY GIVEN: Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council has donated £1,000 to a number of community organisations. Marske Town Centre Partnership and the Saltburn 500 Club each received £200. Marske and New Marske Residents' Association has been awarded £500 while Redcar Coastwatch received £100.

FITNESS TRAIL: A 2km trim trail made up of nine pieces of workout equipment has been completed at Summerhill in Hartlepool. Changing rooms, showers and locker rooms are available for users.

COFFEE MORNING: A coffee morning will be held at Greens Lane Methodist Church, Stockton, on Saturday, May 4, from 10am to 12pm in aid of Stockton Music and Drama Festival.

BLIND AUCTION: An auction of unseen items held at Wilton Golf Club raised £800 for Teesside Hospice, in Middlesbrough.

FARM PLAN: An application for outline planning permission for a residential development at Spencerbeck Farm, Ormesby Road, Middlesbrough, has been received by Middlesbrough Council.