THE RSPCA charity shop in Langley Moor near Durham has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers to help out at the shop for a few hours a week.

Anyone interested should contact the shop on 0191-378 2645. The charity is also in constant need of new people to provide homes for abandoned animals in the area. For more information on adopting an animal from the Rspca ring 0191-378 0439.

MAKE HAY: Volunteers are needed to help spruce up a Derwentside beauty spot. Environmental group Groundwork West Durham is holding a weekend of hay making and a pond clearance at the Grove Ponds, Consett, on Saturday and Sunday, 10.30am-3.30pm. Tools will be provided, but helpers should bring a packed lunch. For details, contact (01207) 693202.

VARIETY SHOW: A packed evening of entertainment by local groups takes place in the Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, on Saturday, from 7pm. Those performing include the Gibside Singers, Annfield Plain Gleemen, Stanley Variety Troupe, South Moor Operatic and Dramatic Society, Samantha's School of Dance, Derwentside Choral Society, Oxhill Youth Club and Stanley Civic Dancers. Proceeds will go to the Friends of the Lamplight. For tickets or further details, contact the box office on (01207) 218899.

AUCTION NIGHT: A charity auction takes place in the Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, on Friday, September 27, at 7pm. The event is part of celebrations to mark the birthday of the Single Homeless Action Initiative in Derwentside (Shaid). More than 50 lots are on offer, including an evening dress from the Prime Minister's wife, Cherie Blair. The party will also feature live music from local bands and a buffet. For further details or to book tickets for the event, contact Shaid on (01207) 218850.

PRICE NIGHT: Musician Alan Price recounts his life in showbusiness through songs and stories at the Lamplight Arts Centre, Stanley, on Friday, at 8pm. For tickets or further details, contact the box office on (01207) 218899.

EXHIBITION PREVIEW: A preview of an exhibition entitled Shorelines, by Cate Watkinson, with words by Julia Darling, was held at the Customs House Gallery, South Shields last night. The exhibition runs from today until October 27, and there will be a talk by the artist on October 3 at 2pm.

MEDITATION CLASS: The Atisha Buddhist Centre, of Darlington, is holding the latest in a series of meditation classes tonight at Alington House, North Bailey, Durham, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. The organisers suggest a donation of £4. For details call (01325) 365265.

DANCE SESSION: An Irish Set Dancing session will be held tonight, between 8pm and 10pm, in St Nicholas Church Hall, Market Place, Durham. Admission costs £1.50. Beginners and experienced dancers are welcome. For more details, call Lindsay Craig on (01325) 375679.