ROCK band Meerkats will play the Barley Mow, Durham Road, Birtley, on Thursday, November 15 and the Beer Monkeys will be gigging at the Market Tavern, South Burns, Chester-le-Street the following night. Both gigs are free and start at 9pm.

GARAGE PLAN: Durham County Council is being asked to grant planning permission for a detached double garage to be built at a house in Castle View, Front Street, Great Lumley.

FREE TASTER: The Aikido Club that meets at Chester-le-Street Community Centre, Newcastle Bank, on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7.30 and 9pm for people aged 12 and over who are interested in joining. For details call 0191-3884752.