Community groups interested in carrying out wildlife projects in the Chester-le-Street district are invited to a meeting at 6pm today, in Chester-le-Street Civic Centre.

There will be information about joining a federation of groups, set up to provide the council with views on the local environment and wildlife. There are also funds available for wildlife projects. Contact James Cokill for details on 0191-584 3112.

LOCAL LEGENDS: Stories and legends from the North-East and other countries will be the subject of a four-week course at the Chester-le-Street Community Association's centre on Newcastle Bank on Wednesdays, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm, starting on September 17. For details, call 0191-388 4752.

KEY ROLE: A Chester-le-Street worker with a key-cutting and shoe repair shop chain has received an achievement award. Clive Stirling, 45, a national sales manager with Timpson, was presented with one of the company's centenary awards for his contribution to the business, where he has worked for the past ten years.

ACTIVITIES PROGRAMME: Stockton Borough Council has published an activity guide for the summer holidays, called Xplore. The guide lists a number of different sports for youngsters to try including rock climbing, athletics, and arts and crafts. The activities take place in schools and community centres. For more information, contact (01642) 397037.

BUS CAHNGES: Bus operator Go North East is making changes to its evening timetables for the Consett and Stanley areas. Two bus guides covering the alterations are available free from Go North East Travel Centres in Medomsley Road, Consett and Stanley Bus Station, or contact the company on 0845 6060260.

TRANSPORT MEETING: The Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority, which oversees the running of the Nexus bus and Metro services, holds a public meeting on Thursday at 10.30am, in Newcastle Civic Centre.

GIVING BLOOD: A blood donor session takes place in the Methodist Church, Strathmore Road, Rowlands Gill, Gateshead, on Thursday, from 2.30pm to 7pm.

PLANNING MEETING: Derwentside District Council's development control committee meets in Consett Civic Centre on Thursday, at 2pm.

GOLF DAY: Tri-Golf, aimed at encouraging children aged five to seven to take up golf, takes place at the Hobson golf course, on Thursday, from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. To book places, contact (01207) 218014.

STREET COLLECTION: The Durham and District branch of the RSPCA raised £137 during a street collection in Durham on June 28.