MARGARET Banner, who used to work in the advertising departments of newspapers, including The Northern Echo, before she contracted multiple sclerosis, is launching a newsletter to help caring services.

She has been appointed a committee member of the Durham Dales Action for Carers, which looks after two carers' centre in Barnard Castle and Bishop Auckland.

She said that she will be contacting businesses in Teesdale and Wear Valley for advertising to support the newsletter,.

Ms Banner said: "I hope my efforts will prove useful for a lot of families."

She can be contacted on (01833) 630202.