THE Darlington Women’s Refuge is urgently appealing for children’s safety gates and fireguards. Anyone who can donate these items is asked to contact 01325-364486 and leave a message with contact details. Cot bedding is also needed and can be handed in at Darlington’s Safer Neighbourhoods Unit in Central House, Gladstone Street.

GREEN FINGERS: The next meeting of Darlington Amateur Gardening Club will be held on Wednesday, October 16 at 7.30pm at Bondgate Methodist Church hall. Guest speaker Adrian Reed will be taking about growing vegetables in small spaces. Entry is £2 for members and £2.50 for non-members. All are welcome.

RESIDENTS’ MEETING: Residents of the Branksome and Cockerton West areas of Darlington are invited to a joint Community Partnership and Police and Communities Together (Pact) meeting which will be held at 6pm on Monday, October 14 at 6pm at Windsor Court, Newton Lane.

ENERGY CHECKS: Age UK Darlington is offering free benefits advice and efficiency checks for older people this winter. For more information call 01325-357345.

POLICE MEET: A Police and Communities Together (Pact) meeting for Sadberge and Whessoe will be held on Tuesday, October 15 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at the village hall in Sadberge.