CHARITY BOOST: A collection by Yarm District Lions at Somerfield Store, Healaugh Park, Yarm, on Friday and Saturday, November 21 and 22, raised £803.

Members the Lions packed bags for customers to raise the money. This year's total exceeded the previous best by more than £100. The Lions extend their thanks to all the staff and customers of Somerfield.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: The lighting of the Christmas tree in the High Street will take place next Friday outside the town hall, at 6.30pm. A carol service will follow the switching on of the lights. The service will be led by the choir from Yarm School and the Salvation Army Band.

CONCERT DATE: Levendale Singers' annual Christmas concert takes place on Monday, December 15, at St Mary and St Romuald RC Church. The concert starts at 7.30pm and the conductor is Vicki Boolaky. All proceeds from the event will go to charity.

FESTIVE DANCE: Yarm Preparatory School Christmas Ball will be held on Saturday next week. There will be a three-course dinner and dancing to Jump the Q.

LINE DANCING: Line dancing takes place at Egglescliffe Community Centre, Durham Lane, Eaglescliffe, on Fridays, from 1.45pm to 3.15pm. Admission costs £1.60 for members and £1.80 for non-members. Beginners and experienced dancers of all ages are welcome.

FUN DAY: The annual Christmas family fun day takes place at the Preston Hall Museum on Saturday next week, from 10am, with last admission at 3.45pm. As well as a chance to see Father Christmas, there will be various stalls and activities for all the family. Barrel organ music will be played in the Victorian street and there will also be a Christmas present hunt. The WI will provide refreshments. Normal museum entry charges apply and there will be a small charge to see Father Christmas, but each child will receive a gift. For further information, contact (01642) 781184.

SANTA CALLS: A Father Christmas Morning is being held at Egglescliffe Community Centre, Durham Lane, Eaglescliffe, on Saturday, next week, from 9.30am to noon. There will be a prize draw with a top prize of £100, entertainment and stalls. Father Christmas will be present from 10am to greet children. Admission for adults is 50p.

PRISONS WATCHDOG: The independent monitoring board at Kirklevington Prison is looking for volunteer members aged 18 and above. No special qualifications are required. The position requires at least four hours a month, but a greater commitment would be welcomed. For further information, contact the Independent Monitoring Board Clerk, HMP Kirklevington Grange, Yarm, TS15 9PA, telephone (01642) 792671. Alternatively, the chairman, Owen Evans, can be contacted on (01642) 780156.

CHRISTMAS CARDS: A church Christmas card has been printed featuring St Martin's Church, Kirklevington, covered in snow, as viewed from Pump Lane. A sample of the card is on view on the board next to the church gates. A pack of ten cards is proced at £4. Those interested in buying can contact David Claybrook, on (01642) 785319, or Kate Brown, on (01642) 784919.

BARN DANCE: Cumbrian Gap will lead a barn dance at Worsall Village Hall tomorrow, at 8pm. Admission costs £4. For more details, call (01642) 700656.