A MAJOR event for deaf people in the North-East will take place next month.

Hundreds of deaf and hearing-impaired people are expected to attend the second annual Spotlight on Deafness open day, at County Hall, in Durham, on Thursday, March 13, from 10am to 4pm.

There will be a series of workshops covering issues affecting deaf people, as well as a commercial exhibition showcasing the latest in technology and equipment.

Voluntary groups and officers from a range of organisations will be on hand to offer advice and there will be activities and demonstrations.

North-East television weatherman Bob Johnson will open the event and a videophone at the hall.

The phones eliminate the need for a sign language interpreter having to travel to see people with hearing problems who are trying to access council services.

The interpreter can see the person through the phone and can then pass on any questions or problems to county council staff.

The authority already has two of the phones, supplied by the Royal National Institute for Deaf People, at its social services offices in Framwellgate Moor and Bishop Auckland.

For details on the event, call 0191-383 3326, or minicom 0191-383 3980.