VARIOUS 'warm spaces' are being set up in Hexham this winter to help residents amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Last month, Rev Gareth Sherwood, of Hexham West End Methodist Church, told Hexham Town Council, following a meeting with community representatives, they plan to open seven spaces across the town for one day a week each between 9am and 5pm from the end of October until Easter.

Rev Sherwood said they would be like a "community living room", with comfy seating, a TV, internet, somewhere for people to charge their phone, toys and games for children, and the opportunity to have teas and coffees and snacks for free. They will also have a microwave if people wish to bring their own food.

Spaces for five days of the week have been identified so far, but they are still looking for two community venues to be a warm hub on Tuesdays and Sundays.

Hexham Courant: The Torch Centre will offer a warm space on Wednesdays.The Torch Centre will offer a warm space on Wednesdays. (Image: Hexham Courant)

This is the timetable for the warm spaces so far:

Mondays - Trinity Methodist Church

Wednesdays - Torch Centre

Thursdays - Eden project and No.28

Fridays - West End Methodist Church

Saturdays - Hexham Community Centre.

The scheme will begin on October 31, after October half-term.

Organisations taking part have signed up to a Warm Spaces Charter, to ensure people using the space receive a warm welcome with respect and dignity.

Rev Sherwood said anyone interested in volunteering on a particular day should contact the relevant venue.

If any community groups are interested in offering a space as one of the community loungers, they should get in touch with Rev Sherwood directly.