A CHARITY has received a £6,000 boost in time for the festive season, thanks to Christmas shoppers.

The annual Durham Shopping Extravaganza, held over two days at the Ramside Hall Hotel, near Durham, raised more than £6,000 each for St Teresa's Hospice, in Darlington, and two other charities.

The £18,000 came from stallholders' and visitors' fees, proceeds from a tombola and raffle, and a generous donation of ten per cent of all sales.

The event featured more than 50 stalls, selling a variety of goods, including food, clothing, jewellery and toys.

Since it was established, it has raised more than £200,000 for local causes, including Children North-East and Macmillan Cancer Relief's County Durham Appeal.

St Teresa's Hospice director Jane Bradshaw said: "I would like to thank the Durham Shopping Extravaganza and everyone who was involved in or attended the event for their kind support and generosity. Staff at the hospice will use this money to help fund our range of palliative and respite care services, and ensure that all guests receive the best care possible."

Next year's shopping event will take place at the Ramside Hall Hotel on October 10 and 11. For more details, contact Margaret Howell on 01429-836909.