A GENTLE seated exercise class aimed at men and women aged 65 and over is starting at Sedgefield Parish Hall on Tuesday, January 7. The weekly class runs from 11am to noon and helps improve strength and balance to help older people remain active and independent. For more information contact 0191-527-0224.

TAXI CRIME: Police in Sedgefield are appealing for information after three women fled from a taxi without paying during the early hours of New Years Day. The women were returning to the town from Durham City and one woman was sick in the taxi. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.

BUGGY FITNESS: A free 12-week buggy boot camp for new parents of all fitness levels will run at Woodhouse Close Children’s Centre in Bishop Auckland from 9am to 9.45 on Thursday mornings from January 9. For more information contact 03000 266390.