A centre for volunteers in the Teesdale area has been officially opened.

Helen Goodman, MP for Bishop Auckland, opened the centre, in Barnard Castle, which is provided by 2D (Support for the Voluntary and Community Sector of Teesdale and Wear Valley).

The group already has a base in Crook but has been successful in its bid for funding from Volunteering England's Action Fund for the latest offices.

The new centre is based at the Learning Shop, in Barnard Castle's Market Place.

Kirsty Hill, from 2D, said: "All the services provided by the Learning Shop will still be available, but it will now have the added services of the volunteer centre.

"People can go in there if they want to volunteer, or register as a volunteer or find out more about volunteering."

It is hoped that the launch of the centre, along with events and promotions across both districts, will encourage a significant increase in inquiries and registrations, especially in Teesdale.

Also at the opening were the Mayor and Mayoress of Barnard Castle, John and Marie Yarker, who are both involved in voluntary work.

The shop will be open from 9am to 4.30pm from Monday to Friday.