HUNDREDS of pounds have been raised for a Durham hospice after paintings were donated in memory of an art-loving Consett mum.

The paintings were given to St Cuthbert's Hospice in Durham City in memory of beauty technician Helen Taylor, who spent ten weeks there before she died at home last July.

Her family wanted to donate paintings by Michael James because she was a fan of his work and the Consett-based artist, an old classmate of Mrs Taylor's, agreed to donate a selection of prints and two originals.

Sharon Taylor, her sister-in-law, said: “We were overwhelmed by his kindness and generosity, especially when he gave us the originals. Helen loved his work so this feels like a very special way to support the hospice in her memory.”

Her mother-in-law, Anne Taylor added: “Helen was such a brave and inspirational woman. She loved life and lived it to the full.

“We were so impressed with the care she received at St Cuthbert’s Hospice. It was outstanding. They didn’t just care for Helen; they cared for all of us."

The hospice auctioned off the paintings at its annual Gentlemen’s Dinner at Ramside Hall Hotel on Friday, May 13, raising £900.

Sheela Joy, senior community and events fundraiser, said: “We are so grateful to Helen’s family and Michael James for donating these wonderful paintings for our auction."

Sharon and Sara Mewse, a friend of Mrs Taylor, are holding a coffee morning for St Cuthbert’s at Derwentside College, in Consett, on Tuesday, May 24, from 10.30am to noon.

Any businesses interested in donating a raffle prize can contact Sharon Taylor on tinkstaylor@live.co.uk