THE efforts of fundraisers in Teesdale have provided more than £15,000 to help local cancer sufferers.

The grand total was raised during the year through a series of events organised by the Teesdale committee of the North of England Cancer Research Campaign.

Members of the committee presented a cheque to representatives from the regional headquarters of the charity, based in Newcastle, during an event at Cotherstone Village Hall.

The money was raised with events including craft fairs, tombolas, raffles, jumble sales, and included individual donations.

Committee member Ian Douglas raised more than £2,000 by organising a series of day trips and weekends away, and donating all the proceeds to the charity.

Brenda Thwaites, treasurer of the Teesdale committee, said: "Everybody who has supported us with their donations and time deserves a round of applause, because it really is a tremendous effort."

The committee has already raised more than £2,000 towards next year's total through raffles and tombolas held during the event at Cotherstone Village Hall.

Anyone wishing to support the committee's fundraising efforts can contact Mrs Thwaites, on (01833) 650215, or Pam Ashmore, on (01833) 638652.