FARMERS can brush up their health and safety knowledge with a free event aimed at raising awareness of the job's hazards.

Agricultural workers in County Durham have been invited to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) event, which will be held at Sedgefield Racecourse next week.

Farmers who want to attend one of four half-day safety sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday are advised to reply to invitations issued by the HSE to secure a place.

Trainers from Lantra, the skills council for the land-based and environmental sector, will demonstrate eight of the most common causes of accidents on farms. Agricultural experts will also talk to groups or individuals.

For details contact David Armstrong at the North East Health and Safety Executive, on 0191-202 6200.