MORE than £20,000 has been raised at a charity ball featuring live entertainment from a television talent show finalist.

The X Factor finalist Keira Weathers performed for over 200 guests at Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield, which raised the money for an appeal to buy two MRI scanners.

Once the funds reach the £2.5million target, the state-of-the-art equipment will be introduced in Darlington Memorial and Bishop Auckland Hospitals.

Charity manager, Pat Chambers, said: “Many of us will need an MRI scan at some point, or have a close relative or friend who will benefit from one, and the ball was a fantastic chance to support the appeal and have a great night."

Guests included directors and staff from County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, and representatives from Maguires Country Parks, who sponsored the ball, Darlington and Newton Aycliffe Rotary Clubs and Sherwoods.

An auction, casino and tombola helped boost the total amount raised.

Ms Chambers added: "We would love to hear from anyone who wishes to make a donation, perhaps in recognition of care they or a loved one has received, or from anyone who can run an event, however small, in support of the appeal.”

To get in touch email cddft.charity@nhs.net

And to donate visit justgiving.com/cddft