AN opera singer will be taking to the skies after winning the chance to ride in a helicopter.

Connie Reeves, a member of Opera Nova, won the trip in a raffle held at Marks and Spencer, in Darlington, to raise funds for the Great North Air Ambulance.

Mrs Reeves will go on a training run with the renowned Dambuster Squadron over the Lake District.

Opera Nova is also helping the Air Ambulance by holding an Italian-themed concert in Middlesbrough Theatre, on June 14.

Beatrice Jebb, of Opera Nova, said: "We were all delighted for Connie and look forward to hearing from her about the flight - we are also delighted to be supporting the Air Ambulance this year at our concert."

Tickets for the concert cost £8.50, concessions £7.50, and are available from the ticketline, on (01642) 318592.