TWO fundraising friends threw an 18th birthday party with a difference.

Joanne Baker and Alison Hedley had organised an event in February in aid of the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

They enjoyed planning and hosting it so much that they wanted to hold another.

This time the duo, from Bishop Auckland, decided to hold a charity night at The Belvedere Club in town that would coincide with Mrs Baker’s daughter Shannon Tray’s 18th celebrations.

The Northern Boys provided the entertainment and £172 raised on the night was presented to the Bishop Auckland fundraising group of Marie Curie.

Elizabeth Varley, chairman of the group, said the donation was a thoughtful gesture and nice that an event for someone young was helping the group.

She said the money would be used to provide care for the terminally ill within their own homes in the Bishop Auckland area.

Miss Hedley said: “It was a superb night, we really enjoyed it.

“Though it doesn’t sound like a lot of money the group said any amount is more than they had before the event and would help and be appreciated.

“We felt there are so many people that could need or benefit from Marie Curie’s care that it was a good charity to support.

“You hear so many stories of people being helped by them.”