A MUSIC night has been arranged to raise money for a vital charity that is close to the heart of the organiser.

Fred Tennant, who was in the care of Barnardo’s in the 80s, is also running the Great North Run to support the charity.

The 49-year-old, from Darlington, has booked local talent, including Ady York, Jane Beacher and Phil Cox, for the fundraiser at Voodoo on Saturday, April 29, from 7.30pm.

He said: “Barnardo’ s supported me within their independent living service after I left care, so I wanted to help in my 50th year. I really want to use this year to raise funds to support children so I am running the Great North Run in September and I wanted to do lots of other fundraising events.

“I’m so pleased to be holding the Voodoo Lounge music night and I’m very grateful to the fantastic line-up for helping. It will be a great evening.”

There is £5 entry fee on the door and all proceeds to go to the charity.

Kara Gillies, of Barnardo’s said: “We are really grateful to Fred for all he is doing raising money to support vulnerable children.”