MASQUERADE BALL: A charity fundraising masquerade ball is being held on Saturday, February 9, at Beamish Hall Hotel. There will be a four-course meal, a quiz, a raffle, a DJ and a photographer. Tickets cost £30, and the profit made goes to Project Trust, a charity that has been sending volunteers overseas since 1967 to carry out projects to improve schools, orphanages, building facilities and educate outdoor sports. Anyone is welcome to this event. Call Jody Hinch on 07879-467455 for more information.

NEW SEASON: New Age Kurling returns to the Fulforth Centre, in Sacriston this week after the Christmas break. Hour-long sessions take place every Thursday starting at 1.30pm. Organised through Age Concern, admission is £2 per session.