AN advice service is appealing for volunteers.

Wear Valley Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), in Bishop Auckland, has launched its appeal to mark the Year of the Volunteers. Each month celebrates a different theme and this month the theme is justice.

CAB manager Peter Singer said: "Access to justice has always been central to the work of Citizens Advice Bureaux.

"Our managers frequently advise people on what their legal rights are in such areas as housing, employment, benefits and consumer problems.

"If necessary, they may also refer clients to one of our specialists for representation at welfare benefit tribunals when they have been refused benefits to which we know they are entitled."

The CAB has a Legal Services Commission contract to provide free welfare benefits and debt advice to people who are eligible for legal help.

Mr Singer said: "Volunteers need no qualifications, particular skills or experience, but do need to be open-minded and non-judgmental as well as being able to work alongside other people and willing to undertake training."

Anyone interested in volunteering can call at the CAB office in the Four Clocks Centre, in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, telephone a recruitment hotline 08451 264 264 or visit the website www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ join-us