DOZENS of businesses have backed a call to raise cash for teenagers caught up in the Manchester terror attack.

Best friends Millie Robson and Laura Anderson, of Newton Aycliffe, were injured in the Ariana Grande bomb blast in May. They inspired two mums in the town, Collette Middleton and Julie Palmer, to organise a raffle and fundraising night for the Woodham Academy pupils.

More than 35 prizes have been donated by businesses and local people with some worth up to £200.

Ms Middleton said: “I personally don’t know the girls I was just touched by what had happened to them and their response to it all.

“Local people and businesses have been so generous, which has overwhelmed the girls and their parents.”

  • Complete with live music and a disco, the event takes place at the Big Club, in Newton Aycliffe, on Friday, 28 July at 7pm. All money raised will be split equally between Millie and Laura, who will be attending.
  • Tickets cost £5 and are available from the Big Club.
  • Raffle tickets costing £1 a strip can be bought on the night or beforehand.