Submissions of nominations for candidates for a vacant city council seat on Wearside close tomorrow (Friday April 5).

A by-election takes place to fill the Houghton ward seat, in Houghton-le-Spring, on Sunderland City Council, on Thursday May 2, the date when voters go to the polls in many local elections round the country.

Nominations should be submitted to the returning officer at Sunderland Civic Centre by 12-noon tomorrow (Fri).

The vacancy arose following the death of Labour councillor Kath Rolph.

Coun Rolph gave 10 years service on the council until she lost her battle with cancer, aged 59, in December.

CENTRE MAKEOVER: Work is concluding this month on a £14,000 makeover of The Flatts Centre, in Easington Lane, the only dedicated youth facility in the area, between Hetton-le-Hole and South Hetton, just on the Sunderland side of the boundary with County Durham.

Among the improvements are roof and gutter repairs, the replacement of damaged windows and doors, plus exterior painting and some surrounding environmental works, including the laying of new tarmac.

The centre proves activities for young people aged eight to 19.

HELPING HAND: Shiney Row Advice and Resource Project (ShARP) provides free, confidential and independent advice on employment, debt and housing issues. It is specifically now able to offer assistance on the benefit changes which came into force this month. For appointments and further information callers should ring 0191-385 6687.