The Crown Inn, at Manfield, near Darlington has been named Country Pub of the Year by the Darlington branch of the Campaign for Real Ale for the second year.

The pub, run by Peter and Karen Hynes, offers up to 20 real ales. The award will be presented tonight at the pub by members of Camra. The Quaker, Mechanics Yard, Darlington was named overall pub of the year.

SCUBA DIVING: Fundraisers are being given the chance to learn how to scuba dive while collecting money for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. On Saturday scuba diving lessons will be held at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington, between 10am and 4.30pm. Divers are being asked to get sponsorship for taking part. For details or a sponsorship form call (01325) 485466.

RAIL PLEA: More volunteers are needed to help clear the overgrown Weardale Railway line ready for a possible reopening next year. Contact Kevin Hillary (01388) 775126 (evenings) or Dave Foxton (01388) 526203 (day), or 8117907 (evenings).

PLANT SALE: Darlington Chrysanthemum and Dahlia Society will hold its annual charity plant sale on Saturday, outside the Netto and Wickes stores in Haughton Road, from 8am to 12.30pm.

SPRING FAIR: Woodhouse Close Church, Bishop Auckland, is holding a spring fair on Saturday, at 2pm.

LINING UP: Tuesday night line dancing classes are starting at Crook Cricket Club. Beginners' lessons are from 7pm to 8pm. In the Spennymoor area there is a Monday night beginners' class at Middlestone Moor Community Centre, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. For details call Irene Tradewell on (01388) 773568.

AGE CONCERN: The Dales Locality Mobile Information and Advice Service will not operate for at least the next three weeks. Normal service will resume as soon as possible. Anyone needing advice or help can contact the Dales Locality Office on (01388) 661133.

DIABETIC MEETING: The Diabetes UK Bishop Auckland group will meet tomorrow, at 1.30pm, at Cumbria Lodge.

ENDURANCE TEST: A mini-triathlon organised by the Rotary Club of Darlington and Darlington Bondgate Round Table, is being held at Hummersknott School and Language College on Sunday.

COFFEE MORNING: St Clare's Church, Newton Aycliffe, is holding a coffee morning on Saturday, from 10am to 11.30am in the church hall.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: Tudhoe Neighbourhood Watch group meets on Monday, in the community centre, at 7pm.