COMMUNITY groups and residents in the Wear Valley have been invited to a series of seminars which could result in grant aid for them.

The meetings, organised by volunteer bureau 2D, will explain what the Neighbourhood Renewal Community Chest Fund and the Community Empowerment Fund entail, and how the grants and other initiatives will affect people.

The first discussion will take place at the Elite Hall, Crook, on March 14, King James I Community Centre, Bishop Auckland, on March 19, St John's Chapel Town Hall, in Weardale, on March 26, and Tow Law Community Centre, on March 21.

The meetings start between 6.30pm and 7pm, and there will be a buffet tea and sign language interpreters available. Contact 2D for details on (01388) 762220 or email enquiries through Friends Reunited, but not everybody has the Internet, so I hope more will get in touch."

Mrs Taylor can be contacted on (01325) 307139