CHRISTMAS FAIR: TV antiques expert David Harper will open Barnard Castle School's Christmas Fair on Sunday, December 8. Organised by the senior school's friends group, the fair takes place from 10.30am to 3.30pm and will feature a host of stalls, a visit from Santa and hot pork sandwiches.

CHRISTMAS CAROLS: A carol singing session around Butterknowle has been organised for Thursday, December 19. Anyone wishing to take part should meet at the village hall at 6pm. All money raised from the event will go to village hall funds. For more details call 01388-710855.