A CHARITY which supports crime victims is appealing for help from the public.

New volunteers are needed to help Victim Support County Durham, which provided free and confidential support to 16,071 victims and 2,473 witnesses last year.

The organisation, which re-structured last summer, stages its first annual meeting today and is urging people to attend.

Training and development manager Gail Murphy said that without additional volunteers, the service may have to be curtailed.

Its 130 volunteers visit victims in their homes and help take care of witnesses at magistrates and crown courts.

Mrs Murphy said: "Many individual volunteers are able to give up only a few hours each week and we are grateful for that.

"But, a great many people are left devastated by crime and we are the only organisation geared up to help.

"Demand for our support continues to grow and to meet those very real needs, we are looking for more help."

She said neither experience or qualifications were required because training, supervision and mentoring was provided, while volunteers' expenses were covered.

Volunteers offer victims and witnesses information on police and court procedures, reassurance and emotional support, help with compensation and insurance applications, crime prevention advice, and assists with housing or benefit problems.

Today's meeting is at County Hall, Durham, at 5.30pm. Anyone interested, should contact Gail Murphy, on 0191-383 9946.