The Grange Hotel, in Southend Avenue, Darlington, is seeking permission to build 15 extra bedrooms and a new function suite.

The application will be considered by the borough council's planning committee.

Choir invitation: New members are invited to join the choir of St James the Great Church, in Albert Hill, Darlington. It meets for Mass on Wednesday, September 10, at 6.45pm.

CHANGE OF USE: A funeral directors has applied for planning permission from Darlington Borough Council to change the use of offices in 17, West Auckland Road, Darlington, to a funeral directors and associated offices.

HULK WINNER: Eight-year-old Tom Harrison, of Darlington, won a Hulk wordsearch competition run by the town's Asda store, in Whinfield Road. He won a pair of Hulk pyjamas for his winning effort in the contest to mark the launch of the film.

HOUSE EXTENSION: Planning permission is being sought from Darlington Borough Council for a two-storey extension to the rear of a house in Ridsdale Street, Darlington.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED: The Friends of Senior Citizens charity is looking for volunteer entertainers to perform for older people in Newton Aycliffe and surrounding villages and to help with events. For more information contact Peter Beaty on (01325) 313924.

STOP SMOKING: A free ten-week smoking cessation course starts at West Cornforth Community Centre on Wednesday, September 10 from 10am to 11.30am. To register, contact Annie Pluse on 0191-301 3813 or 0781 684 8774.

FARMERS' MARKET: Sedgefield village is to host a farmers' market on the second Sunday of each month, starting from Sunday, September 14. The market will be held on the village green in front of the Hope Inn and will be open for business between 9.30am and 1.30pm.

CAT EVENT: An event to promote National Cat Week will be held in St Elizabeth's Church hall in Woodham village, Newton Aycliffe, on Sunday, September 7 from 2pm to 5pm. There will be lots of information on cats and related products on sale.

INQUEST VERDICT: A verdict of accidental death was recorded yesterday on retired farmer George Beveridge, 85, who fell down stairs at his home Bounder House Farm, Tow Law, in April. An inquest at Bishop Auckland Magistrates' Court was told that Mr Beveridge, who was in ill health died from multiple injuries.

POOL SESSIONS: Parent and child swimming sessions are available at Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre every Monday to Friday, from 10am to 1am.