GIRLS are invited to make friends, play, be creative, get active, develop skills, feel good about themselves and have fun by joining a new group in Chester-le-Street.

The town's Girls Friendly Society (GFS) group for girls aged nine and older will meet at Bullion Hall Community Centre, South Approach, on Mondays, 6pm to 7.30pm.

Sessions are £3 a week to cover the cost of running the group but those who cannot contribute will still be able to attend.

Helen Morrell, North East regional development coordinator, said: “Our GFS groups are great places for the girls to have fun, make friends and learn new skills. This can have a significant impact on how they feel about themselves, other people and the world around them.

"Girls get the chance to engage with an exciting and varied programme of activities from camping and local trips out, to taking part in creative sessions and learning about inspiring women.

"Our women volunteers are trained to work together to plan and run weekly sessions for groups of girls and young women all over England and Wales. GFS is already well established in the local area, with successful groups in Eldon, Bishop Auckland and Pittington.”

Girls and their parents can find out more and meet the volunteers at a fun launch event – which will include facepainting, feely boxes, snacks and crafts –on Monday, January 13. To sign up visit girlsfriendlysociety.org.uk/chester-le-street or for details of other groups see girlsfriendly society.org.uk/group-finder.