STAFF at the Darlington branch of Hewitts Solicitors have voted to support St Teresa’s Hospice during 2013. The decision comes shortly after the team from Hewitts took home the trophy from the Hospice’s annual quiz, narrowly beating their competitors. The trophy is now proudly on display in the firm’s offices on Haughton Road. Solicitor Graham Hunsley said: “We look forward to a long and successful association with St Teresa’s Hospice in raising money for a great local charity.” Staff have also donated unwanted Christmas gifts to the Hospice, and joined the St Teresa’s Hospice T Box campaign – each person attempting to fill a small collection box with loose change.

PACT MEETING: The next meeting of Sadberge and Whessoe Partners and Communities Together will be held on Tuesday (February 19), in Whessoe Parish Hall. Councillor Brian Jones will be in attendance, to discuss any ward issues.

RUNNING CHANCE: Five runners from Carmel College – Katie Noble, Bradley Davies, Jess Hull, Dean Newton and Mikayla Jordens (correct) – will represent County Durham in the English Schools Cross Country Championships, in Derbyshire, in March. Simon Hannaford, curriculum leader for PE at the school, said: “I am so very proud of them all. They have trained so hard for this and are a credit to not only Carmel but also Darlington. I am sure they will all run very well in the nationals.”

FLOWER CLUB: At the most recent meeting of Darlington Flower Club, Bill Dixon – not the council leader – gave a demonstration entitled Just William, showcasing some of his flower arrangements. It was announced at the meeting that the title of honorary secretary had been taken over by Christina Steel. The next meeting will be the club’s annual meeting, at 2pm, on March 6, at St Cuthbert’s Church Centre, in Market Place, Darlington. National demonstrator Nick Grounds will give a talk entitled ‘Infloresence’. Visitors are welcome. For more information, call 01325-374732.