A SET of roadshows geared at ensuring that everyone in a north Durham district can enjoy an affordable warm home has been unveiled.

The initiative was launched as part of the Vision in Action conference staged by the Chester-le-Street District Partnership, at the town's Riverside Ground.

The conference, aimed at residents as well as community and voluntary sector organisations, attracted 130 delegates.

The Warm and Healthy Homes roadshows will offer advice on issues including benefits people may be entitled to and information on loft conversions.

The roadshows will be supported by the primary care trust, Age Concern, SureStart and Pension Services.

Energy-efficient electric kettles will be on sale for £5 each, while free low-energy light bulbs will be given out to help reduce household electricity bills.

District council chief executive Roy Templeman said the conference, which had been a "resounding success", examined ways of involving young people in decision making. He said one proposal was the setting-up of a community chest.

Mr Templeman said: "Young people will be encouraged to forward ideas for projects and how they would want to use that money."

The roadshows will be at: Lumley Sports and Social Club from 1pm to 6.30pm on Wednesday; Burnmoor Scout Hall at Fence Houses from 2pm to 7pm on Monday, October 18; Sacriston Workingmen's Club from 9am to 3pm on Thursday, October 21, and Pelton Community Centre from 2pm to 6.30pm on Tuesday, October 26. For more information, contact 0191-387 2227.