A STAR-spangled golf day will raise thousands of pounds to help North-East stroke victims and their families.

The Tim Healy Golf Classic was played yesterday at the Ramside Hall Golf Club, near Durham City, in aid of the Stroke Association.

The fomer Auf Weidersehn Pet star was joined by his wife, Coronation Street actress Denise Welch, and colleagues from the soap - including Jane Danson, who plays Leanne Battersby.

Fellow Auf Weidersehn star Kevin Whately, comedian Stan Boardman and soccer stars, including Newcastle's Alan Shearer and Sunderland's Niall Quinn and Kevin Phillips, also took part.

The event featured celebrities joining 30 corporate teams of three for a round of golf followed by a gala dinner and cabaret.

The Stroke Association provides information and education centres in the region and support for victims and their families. Charity spokeswoman Kate Bennett said: "We hope to raise about £10,000 and the money will be spent on community services for stroke victims in the North-East.

"It is the second year we have held the event. Tim Healy supports the event because the money stays in the North-East.

"It is fantastic to have this backing and to be able to raise this kind of money."