DARLINGTON for Culture (DfC) has unveiled a new-look website. DfC, which acts as a voice for the arts community in the town, uses the site to pass on news and news about the arts scene.

The website is particularly important in the run-up to the annual Darlington Arts Festival, which starts in April and runs throughout May.

DfC chairman John Dean said: “There was a need for a cleaner, more modern look and also to remove some of the technical glitches which were beginning to cause us problems.”

The site is at darlingtonforculture.org

PACT MEETING: Chief Inspector Chris Reeves will attend a police and communities together meeting at Heathfield School, The Broadway, at 6pm, on Wednesday (February 26).

HANDBAG AUCTION: Hall Garth Hotel and Country Club will stage a handbag auction on Friday (February 28), in aid of St Teresa’s Hospice. The event will see more than 500 handbags go under the hammer, including designer labels such as Radley, Gucci and Prada, with every lot starting at just £1. The handbags have all been donated by supporters of the Hospice, for which the organisers are very grateful. A raffle will also be held at the event, and the bar will be open.

LIVE MUSIC: Opera by Design will perform at Cockerton Methodist Church, on Saturday, March 15, in aid of the Darlington branch of the Samaritans. The performance will include opera favourites. Director Stuart Buckton said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to sing in this wonderful location and will be performing some of the most popular arias, duets, trios and quartets in the operatic repertoire. It is an evening not to be missed.” Tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £5 for under 16s, via info@operabydesign.co.uk or at the door.