A WRITERS' group that was facing closure less than two years ago is back on its feet.

Wordweavers, based in South Moor, Stanley, was almost disbanded at the end of 2002, due to lack of interest.

An appeal for new members has led to renewed enthusiasm, with meetings now regularly attracting 15 wordsmiths.

This year, several of the group have gone on to have work published in magazines.

Member Helen Steel, of Pentlands Terrace, Stanley, said: "We are now confident that there is a future and indeed we are planning towards that future."

Some of its writers will be reading from their work as part of the Voices event at the Beamish Mary Inn, No Place, near Stanley, on May 30. They are also putting together an anthology of poems and stories that is due out this summer, and further works aimed at children are due out before Christmas.

The group's next meeting is at the Lamplight Arts Centre in Stanley this Thursday, 7-9pm.

There is a small charge per session, to cover the costs of the class tutor. For details contact (01207) 234495.