A CARING organisation from north Durham is celebrating its tenth anniversary with a party this weekend.

Derwentside Carers' Centre, in Delves Lane, Consett, is holding a dinner dance at Consett Civic Centre on Saturday evening.

It was established as Derwentside Crossroads in 1995 with funding from County Durham Social Services.

The aim is to provide emotional and practical support through a range of services to carers across the area.

A centre spokesman said: "The past ten years have seen us go from strength to strength.

"As we celebrate ten years of working for and with carers across Derwentside, we feel very proud of our achievements and hope the next ten years are as successful."

The centre employs 15 people and has a board of nine trustees. There are an estimated 12,500 carers in Derwentside.

It is always looking for funders, locally and nationally, to support its work.

The centre is currently supported by County Durham Health and Social Care, Derwentside Primary Care Trust, the Big Lottery and Northern Rock.

For details about the dance, caring or to make a donation call (01207) 502688.