BUSINESSES and individuals in a job-starved dale can get information and advice at a special event today.

Wear Valley Development Agency has organised an advice surgery for firms and people in Weardale, which has suffered major job losses.

Many of the organisations directly associated with the development of businesses and communities in the area will attend in a bid to boost its fragile economy.

The drop-in session is from 2pm to 8pm, at Durham Dales Centre, Stanhope.

The agency has helped small and large businesses start up and extend for 16 years and hopes the surgery will highlight the help that is available for new businesses or job-hunters.

The event was organised in response to devastating blows suffered by the dale when the cement works, its main employer, closed in August, and the future of Weardale Steel became uncertain.

Groups at today's event will have information about business diversification, safety aspects, training, grant funding, business planning and marketing.

Organisations attending include Wear Valley District Council, Bishop Auckland College, New Deal for Employers, Rural Development Programme, 2D Support for the Voluntary and Community Sector, Wear Valley Disability Access Forum, Connexions (Career Service), Community Police Service, Business Link and Houghall Community College.