HISTORY TALK: Eileen McLeod will give a talk on Aunt Martha Horsman's memories at the next meeting of the Howden-le-Wear Local History Society, in the community centre next Tuesday, at 7pm. The cost is £1 for members or £1.50 for non-members.

SURFING THE NET: Crook Library has three public access computers which people can pre-book. The access is free and there is also a BBC website for computer beginners which gives a basic introduction to computer skills. Library staff are available to help. Bookings can be made during library opening times, except between 4pm and 5.30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Hartside Community Centre, Crook has the following activities available: Monday, arts class 7.15pm to 9.15pm; aerobics, 7pm to 8pm; badminton 8pm to 9.15pm; Tuesday to Thursday, mother and toddlers group from 9.15am to 11.15am, badminton 7pm to 8.45pm; Friday, karate from 5.45pm to 7.30pm. The community hall meeting room and school can also be hired. For details call Margaret Buddin on 01388 766926.

BOXING CONTEST: Crook professional light-welterweight boxer Nigel Wright, ranked 22nd in Great Britain, meets Francis Barrett rated 18th, an Irish gypsy, in his sixth professional bout in Portsmouth on May 25.

SUNDAY WALK: Crook and Weardale Ramblers enjoyed a walk to the summit of Skiddaw (3,000 ft) in the Lake District on May 12. For information on future walks contact David Balmer, walks programme co-ordinator, on 0191-584 7654.

COUNTRY NIGHT: Crook Cricket Club is hosting a country music evening with the Mustang Duo on Saturday. Admission is £2 at the door.

STEPPING DOWN: The committee and members of Howden-le-Wear Community Centre have expressed their thanks to retiring secretary Bob Watson for his outstanding work over the past 27 years. Although Mr Watson is retiring as secretary, he will continue to serve on the committee.