EXPANSION plans have led to new appointments at the Signpost advice and information centre in Crook.

A restructuring programme agreed by the board has seen trustees becoming directors, with manager Malcolm Chatham taking on the twin roles of chief executive and vice-chairman.

Karen Hoyle takes over as manager, Brian Wiley is senior advisor and Vivien Bhattacharjee, from Bishop Auckland, becomes an advisor.

Mr Wiley has spent the past 13 years working at the Legal Services Commission, the organisation which awarded Signpost a Quality Mark.

Mr Chatham said: "Signpost has been through a traumatic period this autumn with several staff and volunteers having left within a relatively short space of time.

"I am delighted with the response that I had from staff and directors alike. Between us we have been able to ensure that we have maintained a service for our clients.

"With the introduction of Karen, Brian and Vivien, we can now start putting in place our plans to expand our services."