A public inquiry is being held to determine whether an amusement arcade can open in Darlington town centre.

The Noble Organisation wants to turn a shop and offices in Northgate in the town into an amusement arcade and tanning centre. A decision was not made on the planning application within the eight-weeks time limit so a public inquiry will now be held. The inquiry will start on June 24 at 10am at Darlington Town Hall at 10am and is expected to last two days.

COACH APPEAL: Bishop Auckland St Mary's Football Club desperately needs a coach for it under 14's team in time for next season. The team plays in the Teesside Alliance League on Sunday afternoons. For details call James Wilson on (01388) 458259.

CHURCH SERVICE: A service of thanksgiving for older people will be held in Neville Parade Methodist Church, Newton Aycliffe, on Sunday, May 25 at 6.30pm. The Friends of Senior Citizens charity will provide transport from homes within a 12 mile radius of Newton Aycliffe. For details, call Peter Beaty on (01325) 313924.

FLOWER SHOW: The Darlington Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society is holding a meeting on June 3. John Parkinson will be talking about dahlias. The meeting will be held at ASE Club, Northgate in Darlington from 7.30pm.

COFFEE INVITE: A coffee morning is held in Sadberge village hall today, from 10am to noon. There will be a raffle, cake and book stalls.

NEW POND: Volunteers are needed to help make a pond at Brinkburn Dene. Work with British Trust for Conservation Volunteers will take place next Saturday between 10am and 4pm. To join in, call (01325) 369152 to book a place.

RAFFLE SUCCESS: The Asda supermarket, on Whinbush Way, Darlington, raised £418 for St Teresa's Hospice during the charity's recent PJ Day, which encouraged people to wear pyjamas to work.

COAST TRIP: Darlington Workers' Educational Association is organising an outing to Whitby Abbey. It takes place on Tuesday, leaving Bennett House at 9.30am. The fee is £10. For information, telephone (01325) 357801.

WALK DATE: Darlington Field Club is staging a three-mile walk from Yarm to Aislaby on Tuesday. Anyone interested should meet at the Arts Centre at 7pm.