OLD Durham Gardens, between Sherburn Road Estate and Maiden Castle, Durham, will be open to the public and for voluntary work on the gardens on March 20, 23, 27, and 30, from 2pm to 4pm.

LECTURE DATE: Andie Harris of the North of England Civic Trust will give a lecture titled Perseverance and Preservation in room PG20 of the Pemberton Building, Palace Green, Durham, on Thursday, March 27, at 5.30pm. Places are limited. To book, email: ra.aliprandi@gmail.com

GYPSY PLAN: Durham County Council is being asked to grant planning permission for the siting of residential caravans at Stables, Pit House Lane, Leamside, near Durham, to create six gypsy pitches. For further details, visit durham.gov.uk

BOBBY THOMPSON: Pete Peverley will bring his The Bobby Thompson Story show to the Gala Theatre, Durham, on Saturday and Sunday (March 22-23). There will be performances each night at 7.30pm. Tickets are £15, or £13 for concessions. To book, call 03000-266-600.

CHARITY APPEAL: The veterans' charity Ssafa in County Durham is appealing for caseworkers to assist veterans in need, particularly in the Stanley and Chester-le-Street areas. Volunteers must have their own car. Expenses are paid and training is provided. For more information, call 0191-383-9452 or email: durham@ssafa.org.uk