CARNIVAL DATE: Organisers have worked hard to make next Saturday's Crook Carnival one of the biggest ever.

The procession starts at 10am from the Civic Centre, while the Peases West Sports Ground will be open from 9am.

PUBLIC MEETING: People in Howden-le-Wear are invited to a public meeting on Thursday, at 7pm, in Howden-le-Wear Primary School, for a community appraisal and an opportunity to air their views on a vision for the future.

SUMMER FAIR: The West Lodge Nursing Home in Crook is holding a summer fair on Saturday, July 12, at 1pm.

WATCH MEETING: Howden-le-Wear Neighbourhood Watch meets today, at 7pm, in the Community Centre.

BACKGAMMON CLUB: A backgammon club will start at the Plantation Inn, Howden-le-Wear on Sunday, July 13. For more details telephone (01388) 767211.

SUNDAY WALK: The Crook and Weardale Ramblers are taking a nine to ten-mile hike in Derwentside on Sunday. Walkers should meet at Crook Market Place for a 9.30am departure, or meet at Smiddyshaw Reservoir at 10am. More details are available from Ses Baldwin on (01388) 608979.

CLUB FUNDS: A summer fair organised by Willington Football Club at the weekend raised more than £200 for club funds. The winning numbers drawn in the raffle were: 36-40, 6-10, 46-50, 86-90, 131-135, 81-85, 31-35, 16-20, 96-100, 141-145, 56-60, 76-80.