Companies will learn how giving time for free can be good for business.

The North East Chamber of Commerce is hosting a seminar on the benefits of taking part in community projects.

A range of initiatives have seen bosses and employees roll up their sleeves for everything from painting and decorating in local schools and charity shops to clearing woodland areas.

Businesses that are keen to take a more active civic role can use the Corporate Social Responsibility seminar to find out how they can help.

The event, to be held at Durham County Cricket Club on December 8, has been organised with the CSR Academy and Barclays Bank.

For details, call Wendy Reaney on 0191-374 6460.