VILLAGE hall management committees can find out how to make their buildings warmer for less money.

The Durham Rural Community Council is holding a series of information days that will teach officials how to conduct their own energy audits.

Field officer Marie Tyler said: "Members of management committees of community buildings have a tough job complying with all sorts of legislation.

"They also have to arrange enough activities and get users through the doors to help them pay all their bills.

"Many community buildings are cold, draughty and hard to heat, with outdated heating systems inappropriate for today's uses.

"The information day will be an enjoyable and practical way to learn about energy efficiency. Participants will be given expert advice and the skills and confidence to carry out their own energy audits and, at the end of the day, have warmer buildings and warmer, happier users and lower energy bills."

The training days will be held at the following venues: West Cornforth Community Centre next Tuesday, Toft Hill and Etherley Community Centre next Wednesday, Stanhope Town Hall on Wednesday, March 13 and Wood View Community Centre, Langley Park, on Thursday, March 14.

To book places on the training days telephone (01207) 529621.

Funding has come from the Durham Rural Community Council and Durham County Council's Rural Development Area and Local Agenda 21 project funds. The sessions are being held in association with National Energy Action.