A COMMUNITY police station in Catchgate, near Stanley, County Durham, becomes a Santa’s Grotto, for one day only, on Friday (DECEMBER 14).

Events begin with the mounting of a Christmas tree, which will be decorated by children from Catchgate Primary School, in the morning, followed by carol singing, accompanied by Durham Police Band, in early afternoon, prior to a visit from Santa Claus, between 3pm and 5pm.

Around 100 members of the community will attend the school for a mulled wine and mince pie welcome, followed by a performance by the band, and a pie and pea supper.

BAND STAND: Durham County Youth Choir and Wind Band are in concert at St Michael and All Angels Church, in The Broadway, Houghton-le-Spring, on Saturday (DECEMBER 15), at 7pm. The programme features Alan Woods’ On Christmas Night, William Shelton’s Alleluya and an array of carols. Tickets, costing £5, can be booked through Durham Music Service, on (03000) 262367, or can be bought on the door, on the night. There is no charge for accompanied youngsters aged 16 and under.

ROCK N’ ROLL: Glen Darren and The Krew Cats top the bill at a rock n’ roll night at Easington Social Welfare Centre, in Back Seaside Lane, Easington Colliery, on Saturday (DECEMBER 15). Doors open at 6.30pm, with admission £5 payable on the night. Further information is available on 0191-527 0635.

DANCE NIGHT: A fifty-fifty dance night takes place at Durham Indoor Bowling Club, off Abbey Road, Pity Me, Durham, on Saturday (DECEMBER 15), from 8 – 11pm. Admission is £2.50, payable at the door. All are welcome, with further information available from ‘Michael’, on 0191-386 6921.

MESSY CHURCH: St Cuthbert’s Church, at Shadforth, near Durham, stages a ‘Messy Church’ children’s craft event on Sunday (DEC 16), from 2pm to 3.30pm. It features craft-making, worship with refreshments available. All are welcome.