TOURISM chiefs are working to ensure that summer events go ahead despite the foot-and-mouth crisis.

A special committee of Durham City Council is meeting weekly to keep a close watch on affected areas.

It will immediately advise event organisers of any possible impact on their activities, which will help them to re-schedule or relocate events if necessary.

The council supports the measures to limit the disease but is also committed to hosting events which bring thousands of visitors to the city.

Council leader Maurice Crathorne said: "As the majority of Durham City district is rural, the foot-and-mouth crisis is of great concern to us.

"However, we are working to bring as much certainty as we can to the activities which characterise summer in Durham City."

The committee will keep a register of events due to be held between April and August. These will be monitored, particularly those planned on land close to livestock.

Those planning events should contact John Mason on 0191-301 8847 to register. The council will keep them in touch about how the disease could affect their plans.