VOLUNTEERS in Darlington are to be trained to help warring neighbours resolve disputes.

A training course for volunteer mediators is to be held for people with good communication skills who will join a team of people dedicated to solving disputes. The training will go towards a qualification in mediation and many mediators go on to specialise in mediation in the workplace, schools or between victim and offender. For more information on the training contact Darlington CVS on (01325) 266888.

SPLASHING OUT: Baby charity Tommy's held a Splashathon at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington, yesterday, as part of a national fundraising initiative. Every child who joined in the sponsored splash received a certificate, balloon and stickers.

CARNIVAL FUN: A carnival will be held on Darlington's Firthmoor estate on Saturday, July 12, from 11am to 3pm. Anyone interested in running a stall is asked to contact Kristina Pryor on (01325) 462979.

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT: Age Concern in Darlington is looking for volunteers to give up a couple of hours to support its flag day collection in the town centre on Saturday, July 19. Anyone wishing to help is asked to contact Elizabeth Lynn on (01325) 362832.

EDUCATION DAY: Adult learners are invited to attend an information day next Thursday, at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Darlington, from 2pm to 4pm, for advice about evening and daytime courses beginning in September. For details visit the college in Vance Terrace, telephone (01325) 461315, or visit the website at www.qeliz.ac.uk.

VOLUNTEERS COURSE: Darlington Community Volunteers Service is holding a racial awareness training event on July 10, from 10am to noon, at Church Row, Darlington.

DRIVING CHARGE: Daniel Cleave, 21, of Lakeside Court, Spennymoor, denied a careless driving charge when he appeared before South Durham magistrates in Bishop Auckland yesterday. The case was adjourned for trial on October 15. Mr Cleave was involved in an accident in Cockton Hill, Bishop Auckland, on Christmas Day.

VILLAGE FETE: Middridge is holding its village fete on Saturday, July 4, from 1.30pm.

TABLE-TOP SALE: Jubilee Fields Centre, Shildon, is holding a table-top sale on Sunday, July 6, from 1pm to 4pm. Entry is 50p and tables are £6. To book a table contact (01388) 775425.

AFFRAY DENIED: Jolene Cheesey, 24, of Honister Square, Crook, and Leanne Crosby, 21, of Fairfield Walk, Sunnybrow, both denied a charge of affray when they appeared before South Durham magistrates in Bishop Auckland yesterday. They were bailed to appear at the court on July 30.