HUNDREDS of tubes of Smarties have been distributed to children and adults to raise money for charity.

The sweets have been given to youngsters in the parish of All Saints and Salutation, in Blackwell, Darlington. It is hoped the chocolates will be enjoyed and then replaced with money.

The appeal is for the United Society of Propagation of the Gospel's Chilean house-building project where people are given materials and training to build their own homes.

People are encouraged to return the tubes at the family service and parade of uniformed organisations on Sunday, October 3, at 10.30am, along with gifts of harvest produce.

These will be distributed within the community and to the women's refuge.

The preacher will be Reverend Geoff Lowson, of the gospel society.

There will also be a harvest songs of praise at 6.30pm next Saturday, which will be followed by a harvest family barn dance with supper.