A CHAMPION boxer auctioned a pair of gloves to help raise money for a young boy with cerebral palsy at a fundraising event this week.

Argie Ward donated the signed boxing gloves for an event organised by builder Ian Wall to raise money for three-year-old Oscar Worton.

The night, which included music from band The Lurios, soul singer Dawn and singer-songwriter Bo Cayce, raised £2,405. An earlier run and bike ride by Mr Ward raised £2,000.

All the artists, as well as the Dolphin Centre where the event was held, donated their services for free.

Mr Ward's boxing gloves fetched £400, and a guitar signed by X Factor runners-up Journey South raised £150.

Other lots included a flat-screen TV and a year's subscription to health club Fitness First.

Oscar has to attend twice-yearly sessions at the Bobath Centre, in London, which specialises in treating people with cerebral palsy. The treatment, which costs £3,000 a session, could eventually help Oscar to walk unaided.

So far, Mr Wall has raised more than £11,000 in nine weeks.

He said: "I can't thank people enough. The generosity of people in Darlington and the surrounding area and the artists was amazing. It was a great night."

Oscar and his mother, Julie, also attended the evening.

She said: "We have been given tremendous support.

"I am really grateful to Ian - he's the one who has done all this wonderful work."