A CITIZENS Advice Bureau is hoping to cut waiting times by extending its opening hours and offering appointments.

From January 5, Darlington Citizens' Advice Bureau, in Bennet House, Horsemarket, will open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 10am to 1pm. On Wednesdays it will open from noon to 6pm.

Bureau manager David Garton said: "For some time the trustees and staff have been concerned about the long waiting periods some of our clients experience. Sometimes our waiting room is packed."

Appointments can be made by calling into the bureau or ringing on (01325) 256999.