THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for charity at a County Durham golfing event.

Bishop Auckland Golf Club held the fundraiser last month and collected £3,000 to be split between the captain's charity and the Butterwick Hospice, which provides end of life care for people.

The day was organised by George Courtney and Ian Larnark, who has devoted a year to raising cash for the Butterwick Hospice.

Helen Kirby, fundraiser for the service, said: "It is great to have someone like Ian helping us fundraise, a local man giving back to his local hospice.

"He has done so much already, and has plans for much more, we couldn’t thank him enough as this is a really difficult time for the hospice as we are struggling for funds. We need more people like Ian willing to host an event for us."

Mr Larnack is planning his next challenge which will seem take to the sky as a paraglider.

He has already raised more than £1,000 in sponsorship and will hosting a pre-Christmas party at Bishop Auckland Town Hall in November.

All proceeds will go to the Butterwick Hospice.

For more information about the hospice and for help with fundraising call 01388 603003.