North Durham MP Kevan Jones joined Gregg Peart and Michelle Dent from Derwentside Homes at ASDA in Stanley today, (Friday December 7), to provide information and answer queries on the welfare changes coming into force in April.

They sat at a stall to explain how new laws, such as paying all benefits into a single bank account, will affect people in the area.

AWARDS NIGHT: The North Durham Youth and Community Committee is holding the 2012 Young Achievers Award presentation at The Activity Den in Tanfield Lea tonight. (Friday, December 11) Awards will be presented to individuals and groups of 13-19 year olds for outstanding achievement within their club, group or their community.

Over 100 young people from youth groups all over the Stanley, Consett and Chester-le-street will be present live music from the young musicians who attend the "Rock the Den" project as well as a disco and refreshments.

CHRISTMAS FAIR: The RSPCA centre, in Chester Moor, Chester-le-Street is holding a Christmas fair On Sunday from 11.30am-2pm.

There will be the chance to meet Santa Claus, homemade afternoon tea with fresh cakes and mince pies, face painting, a Christmas tombola and luxury raffle and the chance to buy cards and gifts that support the RSPCA.

Entrance is £1 with all of the money raised going back to the animals at the centre.