A SERVICE that allows housebound readers to use Darlington library service needs more volunteers to help it expand.

The home reader service is run by Darlington Council and WRVS volunteers and caters mainly for the elderly or infirm.

The volunteers deliver books or audio-tapes every month to people who cannot easily leave their homes to get to the town's libraries.

The reader is able to request titles or types of books they want to read, as well as renew any book they have not finished.

The WRVS volunteers who carry out the deliveries have been rewarded for their dedication with a presentation of certificates at Darlington Library. But extra volunteers are needed if the service is to reach more people who want to have regular access to books.

It is hoped that, if more people come forward to offer their time to make deliveries, the service can be more widely advertised.

Volunteers are asked to work up to three hours on one day a month. Expenses are paid to cover travel costs.

The WRVS has been working in Darlington for more than 60 years.

Anyone interested in volunteering or finding our more about the service can call the WRVS on (01325) 366682 during office hours or the national volunteering helpline on 0845 6014670. Information is also available from Darlington library on (01325) 462034.