COMMUNITY groups, businesses and schools around the region took part in the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning to raise funds for a cancer charity.

The event for Macmillan Cancer Support saw thousands of kind-hearted people across the North-East and North Yorkshire join together to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake, while donating money for the cause.

Established in 1990, event is Macmillan’s biggest fundraising event, with many people inspired to take part in memory of friends and family.

Among the many events was a version of the Great British Bake Off, at Middleton Hall, in Middleton St George, near Darlington.

Television’s Jill Harbord, known for her appearances on reality series Ladette to Lady, made a guest appearance to judge the event, dubbed the Middleton Hall Bake Off.

Resident Hilary Gibbon and care assistant Pauline Kwok were announced as star bakers for their strawberry roulade and won a meal for two in a local restaurant.

Ms Harbord said: “The standard was very high; however the winning strawberry roulade was wonderful."

Managing director Jeremy Walford said: “It’s brilliant when you get the older residents demonstrating their skills to the younger generation.”

People in Billingham were able to take part in the fundraising event in a slightly different venue from most.

Co-operative Funeralcare opened its doors to offer people a cuppa as well as offering a chance to win a variety of prizes.

Becky Thompson, an administration worker, said: “We hope people will come along and join us in raising a mug to Macmillan.

“As well as enjoying coffee, cake and biscuits, visitors were able to browse around the funeral home.”

Another event took place at The Northern Echo’s offices, organised by Katherine Kitching and Sam Linfoot on the advertising floor, in memory of colleague Lynn Morgan who lost her battle with cancer in 2009.

Mrs Kitching said: “Lynn worked for The Northern Echo for over 25 years. She was such a fun character who loved baking so it seemed appropriate that Macmillan’s biggest coffee morning was a fitting tribute to her”

Staff expect to raise more than £300 through the event and an advertising feature.

Elsewhere, it was child's play for rugby players from Darlington Mowden Park, who joined children and parents from Rosedene Nursery in the town.

The players took time out of training to join in the fun, helping to raise £120.