THE latest equipment and advice for deaf people will be on show at an exhibition in Durham.

Spotlight on Deafness will be held on Thursday, March 13, in County Hall.

Among the exhibits will be a video phone, supplied by the Royal National Institute for Deaf People.

The phone means a sign language interpreter will not have to travel to a deaf or hearing impaired person to help them communicate.

Because they can see each other, the interpreter is able to talk to a hearing person and explains what the deaf person wants.

The event is sponsored by Sarabec Limited, of Middlesbrough, which designs and manufactures products for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Anna Knighton, sponsorship officer with Durham social services, said: "The event is being promoted to social services clients as well as through deaf clubs and societies, voluntary organisations, and to professionals in health and social care from across the region, so we are hopeful of a really good turnout.''

Anyone wanting to attend the conference can call Ms Knighton on 0191-383 3326 or on the mini-com number 0191-383 3980.