A MAJOR fundraising group that aims to support good causes across north Durham has been launched.

Derwentside Rotary Club, which began meeting last October, has received approval to join the ranks of Rotary International. It aims to bring together people from across the district to raise cash for charities.

The group has already outlined an ambitious programme of events. The biggest will be a charity golf day, on Friday, September 17, at Consett and District Golf Club, in aid of the Willowburn Hospice at Maiden Law, near Lanchester.

Car dealership EW Motor Services of Forster Street, Consett, is putting up a £15,000 MG Rover car as the prize for a hole-in-one.

More than 130 people attended the club's first fundraiser, a murder mystery night and disco in the Derwent Manor Hotel near Consett, in February. It raised £650, which will go towards equipment for Blackfyne Juniors Football Club in Consett.

The club will also host the Halloween In The Park event in Blackhill and Consett Park, on October 31.

It meets on Wednesdays at 7.30pm, in the Derwent Manor Hotel. Anyone interested in joining the Rotary club should contact Michael Dynes on (01207) 581315.

Anyone interested in sponsoring the golf day or taking part should contact Dave Molyneux on (01207) 563916.