Chester-le-Street Citizens Advice Bureau is taking its services out to more neighbouring villages.

The bureau has secured Coalfields Regeneration Initiative funding to set up sessions at community centres at Bournmoor, Fence Houses, Pelton, Ouston and Nettlesworth.

The bureau deals with problems such as debt, welfare benefits, housing, consumer complaints, mental health, employment issues and tribunal hearings. The sessions are staffed by paid caseworkers and experienced volunteers.

Bureau manager Deborah Parker said: "It is hoped that by establishing a regular presence in these areas the bureau will not only be meeting a growing need for its comprehensive and free advice services, but will also become an integral part of local community life."

The bureau has run sessions in Sacriston, Pelton Fell, and Chester West for some time.

The new ones are at Bournmoor Community Centre on alternate Mondays, 10am to 1pm; Pelton Community Centre, alternate Mondays, from 10am to 1pm; Ouston Community Centre, Tuesdays, 9.30am to 12.30pm; Fence Houses Community Centre, alternate Thursdays, 1.15pm to 4.15pm; and Plawsworth and Kimblesworth Community Centre, alternate Thursdays, 10am to 1pm.

For further details of these and other sessions, call 0191-389 3000, Monday to Friday.

l The bureau needs volunteers. Anyone interested can use the above telephone number or call at the Chester-le-Street office in Ashley Terrace, on Tuesdays or Fridays between 10am and 3pm.