INDIAN head massage and hypnotherapy are among the complementary therapies on offer at a free event in Hartlepool next week.

Talks and taster sessions aim to give people an insight into various therapies, including homeopathy, aromatherapy and reflexology, in Grange Road Methodist Church Hall, Hartlepool, on Wednesday.

Residents of Hartlepool's New Deal for Communities (NDC) area, which stretches from Hart Lane to Belle Vue, are invited to the event, organised by Hartlepool Mind with the backing of NDC.

The project also involves offering people up to eight therapy sessions free of charge, although places are limited and are being allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hartlepool's NDC area has been awarded £54m by the Government to spend in West Central Hartlepool.

Projects aim to improve health, raise education standards, cut crime, improve housing, create jobs and build a stronger community.

NDC chiefs hope that the course will reduce the proportion of residents suffering anxiety, depression or stress.

Julia Batra, NDC programme manager, said: "We are delighted with the response to the initiative, which is proving to be one of our most successful projects so far in terms of attracting residents' interest.