LONE parents seeking support and advice from people in the same situation will meet tonight to set up a branch of the charity Gingerbread.

The national lone parent charity hopes to set up a number of local groups in the North-East, including a branch covering North Durham and Chester-le-Street.

Tonight's meeting has been called by a number of single parents who live locally who are keen to hear from potential members, particularly men.

"We've had a great initial response, but so far there's been very little interest shown from lone fathers," said one. "It's certainly not something which will be restricted to single mums."

Any lone parent is welcome to the initial get-together, at Brown Sugar coffee shop, in New Elvet, Durham, at 7pm.

Jane Caytor, Gingerbread's regional organiser, hopes to attend to outline what the charity has to offer.

For further details ring (07834) 983170 or 0191-384 6464.