A WOMEN'S writing group is appealing for help to keep its magazine afloat.

A group of five women from New Brancepeth, Ushaw Moor and Bearpark came up with the idea for Nub, a magazine for each of the Durham villages, during creative writing sessions.

Under the guidance of author Kitty Fitzgerald, and with support from Durham City Arts, they produced the first issue in June.

Since then, the magazine has gone from strength to strength and got bigger with each edition.

The latest edition, which is due for publication this week, has been funded by the County Durham Foundation.

However, without a regular source of income, the magazine's future is in doubt.

Editor Eileen Thompson said: "It's a free magazine, and we would like it to remain free, so we are looking for anyone to help fund future editions.

"We are sure there is someone out there who will fund us."

The magazine contains articles, poetry, short stories, a problem page, local news, puzzles, crosswords, gardening and cookery items.

Anyone wishing to sponsor the magazine can contact the group by ringing Mrs Thompson, on 0191-373 2512