VOLUNTEERS could meet a new circle of friends by helping out at Help the Aged's charity shops across the region.

Helpers are needed in Bishop Auckland, Chester-le-Street and Stokesley. They get a 20 per cent discount on all shop purchases.

Lin Lawrence, of the charity's North-East retail division, said: "Volunteering can prove to be an excellent way of acquiring new friends, gaining work experience and enhancing a CV.

Anyone interested can call Jennifer Salt at Bishop Auckland on (01388) 451327, June Shaw at Chester-le-Street on 0191-388 4771 or Juliet Graham at Stokesley on (01642) 713603.