ANIMAL owners are being sought to take part in a sponsored dog walk next month.

The walk will take place on Waldridge Fell, near Chester-le-Street, to raise money for the International Service Dog Service Fund, a not-for-profit organisation run by dog trainer Ian Young. Last year, Mr Young publicised his cause by walking 900 miles from Germany to his home town of Chester-le-Street, with his labrador, Sally. Now, Mr Young is training service dogs to help disabled and elderly people. The walk will take place on July 12 and there will be two versions, one suitable for pushchairs and toddlers, and a lengthier walk. Those taking part need a sponsor form, which can be obtained from Mr Young's mother, Ruth Young, on 0191-388 6156.

MP's SURGERY: North West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong will hold her monthly advice surgery in Consett Civic Centre, on Friday, from 6pm.

FOLK NIGHT: Croxdale Folk Club is staging an event at the Daleside Arms, Croxdale, tomorrow, from 8.30pm, featuring Kieran Halpin. Tickets, priced at £3, are available at the door or by calling (01388) 815162.

SUMMER FAIR: Witton Gilbert Primary School is holding its annual summer fair on Saturday, June 21, at 11am. In addition to stalls and a raffle, there will be pony rides for children and fire brigade demonstrations.

DAVRO SHOW: The Empire Theatre, Consett, is presenting Not In Front Of The Children, with Bobby Davro, at 7.30pm on Saturday, June 21. Tickets are £12.

TUNNEL TRADE: Work is under way on a new trade park next to the Tyne Tunnel. UK Land Estates will build 11 factory or warehouse units on the site, next to the A19 approach road to the tunnel.

PENSIONERS' RIGHTS: Consett Pensioners' Rights group meets in the Demi Rugby Club, Consett, on Wednesday, June 18, at 1.30pm, for a talk from Consett police. All pensioners are welcome.

SUNFLOWER EVENT: St Cuthbert's Hospice is holding its sixth annual sunflower event at Durham Cathedral this week. The west door will be adorned with sunflower banners created by children from 14 primary schools to raise awareness of the National Hospice Sunflower Appeal, running throughout June.

BEARS' PICNIC: Wheatley Hill Community School will be the venue for a SureStart teddy bears' picnic, on Friday, from 10am to 2pm. Youngsters will be entertained by Charlie Chalk and Brewster Bear, and other attractions will include face-painting, free balloons, and the chance to view the nursery and the school's recently landscaped exterior and refurbishments. The event is free, but those attending are asked to take a contribution to the picnic.