A Darlington hospice is teaming up with the town's schools and colleges to arrange its own student charity week.

St Teresa's Hospice is holding is first Raising and Giving (Rag) Week to raise money for its care services.

The event will run from March 20 to 24, giving youngsters a chance to learn about the hospice and how it works within Darlington.

Schools and colleges can take part in the Rag Week in a number of ways, and students are invited to come up with fundraising ideas.

Suggestions have included a non-uniform day, collection buckets, St Teresa's wristbands and producing magazines.

Several schools have already signed up for the event including Haughton, Hummersknott and Hurworth schools and Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College.

Hospice director Jane Bradshaw said: "The aim of the Rag Week will simply be for everyone to enjoy themselves and raise money at the same time. The hospice's fundraising team has already put a great deal of work into the event and has even designed a special logo for the participating schools to use."

Schools wishing to join in can call Alexa Wilson on (01325) 254321.