A CHARITY shopping event that has raised more than £400,000 for worthy causes over the years is returning with new evening opening.

The volunteer-run Durham Shopping Extravaganza takes place at Ramside Hall Hotel over two days, starting on Wednesday, October 5, with more than 70 stalls confirmed.

This year’s event will include an evening shopping experience, with opening hours of 1.30pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, with a return to the traditional hours of 10am to 4pm on Thursday, October 6.

Co-chair Nicky Swan said: “We are fortunate in being extremely well supported both by local shoppers and people who travel to our event – last year more than 1,300 people came through the door.

“However, we know that daytime only opening hours means many working people miss out.

“We’d also like to see more gentlemen coming along, so this year we’re introducing our first ever evening shopping hours. There will also be a free glass of wine for everyone coming after 5pm on Wednesday.”

Senior Choristers of Durham Cathedral and members of the Galilee Choir, Chorister School, Durham, will provide musical entertainment during the evening.

Stallholders each donate ten per cent of their takings to charity. Last year’s event raised £20,000, with £6,000 each going to Butterwick Hospice at Bishop Auckland, St Margaret’s Centre in Durham and Home Start Seaham, with other charities benefited from smaller donations.

Home Start’s Jane Burlinson said: “This money benefits so many people. It has given us a massive boost of confidence, particularly during these difficult times; knowing that our work is valued by you as a worthy cause."

This year’s main beneficiaries are the If U Care Share Foundation, which supports those bereaved by suicide, St Teresa's Hospice in Darlington and Tabitha's Toys, which loans sensory toys to children with complex needs and their families.