A volunteer co-ordinator has arranged drop-in sessions at centres across South Durham.

Lindsay Wright, who works for volunteer agency 2D in Crook, hopes people will call in for advice and help at the sessions.

The mother-of-three, from North Bitchburn, said: "We hope we can show that volunteers are valued. The stereotypical image is right out of date. There are lots of opportunities now for people to develop or use their skills and in this way enhance their own career prospects.

"People also volunteer as a way of putting something back into society, using their abilities to help others. They have the same rights and responsibilities as employees and they are supported all the way through.

"Part of our role is to be there for them with advice and information. The best thing for some people is that it can be fun."

Ms Wright has arranged the following drop-in centres:

* The Four Clocks, Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, on alternate Thursdays, between 11am and 1pm, from November 28

* Woodhouse Close Church on the first Thursday of every month from December 5

* Tow Law Community Centre, every second Friday, from January 10

* Wolsingham Library, every last Monday, from November 25

* Durham Dales Centre, Stanhope, every last Wednesday from November 27

* Willington Library, every third Wednesday, from December 18

* Willington Resource Centre, last Tuesday, from 1.30 to 4pm, from November 26. Times are 10am to noon unless listed otherwise.

Ms Wright and other 2D staff are also at the Christmas Market, in Stanhope, on December 13, from 10am to 3pm and at an open day arranged by the Wear Valley Development Agency in the Dales Centre on Wednesday from 2pm to 8pm.