A £610,000 programme to update heating systems in more than 250 homes in Darlington has been started by the borough council.

A total of 185 homes in the Red Hall, Lascelles and North Road areas will have central heating systems replaced. Residents in Rosemary Court and Rockwell House sheltered schemes will also benefit from the work, which is expected to be completed by next spring.

CRIME SEMINAR: A two-day seminar on ways to reduce criminal behaviour among young people is to be held at Ferryhill Comprehensive School. It will include representatives from the police, Ferryhill Town Council, Sedgefield Borough Council and crime prevention agencies.

YOGA SCHOOL: A six-week yoga summer school starts on Monday, in Gainford Village Hall, from 7pm to 8.30pm, and Wednesday, from 10am to 11.30am. For details call Sue Tempest-Cooper on (01325) 730834.

CHILDREN'S PLAY: The Eden Theatre, in Bishop Auckland Town Hall, will host a musical adventure show for four to 14-year-olds tomorrow, at 3pm. Tickets to see Kosmic Krew, a space age tale about the search for a cosmic crystal, are £5 for adults and £4 for concessions.

VILLAGE WALK: A two-mile walk around Romaldkirk, in Teesdale, is being led by historian and geographer Vera Chapman tomorrow, at 10.30am. The meeting point is the Rose and Crown pub in the village. Booking is not required. For details call 0191-383 4144.

COUNCIL MEETING: A meeting of Ferryhill Town Council will be held on Wednesday, at 7pm, in the town hall.

GRANT AID: Great Aycliffe Town Council has agreed to make a donation of £100 towards the local branch of the Samaritans.

COFFEE MORNING: A coffee morning will take place at Pease House, off Darlington's Market Square (next to Tourist Information), today from 10.30am to 12.30pm. The event has been organised by the town's Carers' Support Project.

GARDEN APPEAL: All Saints' and Salutation Church, in Blackwell, Darlington, is holding a gardening session today in preparation for the judging of Northumbria in Bloom on Thursday. A tidying-up session will take place on Wednesday. Anyone interested in helping is asked to attend the church, in Blackwell Lane, on either day.