RETAILERS are being asked to donate unwanted Christmas stock to help a children's charity.

The North-East branch of the charity ChildLine is holding a ball at the Gosforth Park Marriott Hotel, north of Newcastle, on Friday, March 24, with the theme of Clowns, Gowns and Tightrope Walkers.

The event is being held to raise funds to help keep the charity's 24-hour helpline service.

ChildLine is holding a grand auction on the night, but it is in desperate need of prizes and is asking businesses to donate sale stock.

Clare Framrose, regional fundraiser for the North-East said: "We would be delighted if local retailers or businesses donated anything they can to help ChildLine.

"The balloon tree at the event needs to be stocked with little prizes worth at least £3 for everyone to win, so donations from any company with samples or promotional items or leftover stock from Christmas or the January sales would be much appreciated."

ChildLine estimates that it provided substantive counselling support and advice to at least 4,000 young callers in the North- East last year.