A HISTORY group is ending a decade-long policy of free entry to meetings to counter growing financial pressure.

South Moor Local History Society, in South Moor, near Stanley, is introducing a £2 annual membership fee and a £1 entry charge for its monthly meetings, which regularly attract 30 people.

Its last free meeting will take place at 7.15pm on Monday, December 6, in South Moor Library.

Francis Newman will give an illustrated talk on the history of Stanley and the surrounding district, prepared by local historian Jack Hair.

To mark the occasion, there will also be free refreshments on offer.