MOTHERS and daughters gathered in force to raise thousands of pounds for a North-East hospice.

In an annual event with one goal of raising as much money as possible for a local cause, the women of the region's travelling community hosted a charity party on December 13.

Having last year raised thousands for cancer charities, this year's efforts made a total of £3,061.85 to support nurses at Butterwick Hospice.

The charity party is organised by Renee Welch Barton, Suellen Welch Lowther and Natalie Welch Knight who hailed the evening a success from the sale of hundreds of tickets and raffle tickets.

Contributions were made by local businesses such as D&H jewellery, Leggs fashion of Darlington, Morrisons, The Beauty Bar on Neasham Road, make-up by Lucy and many more hair and beauty shops located in Darlington.

Other businesses who donated were Designer Childrenswear in Sunderland, Emily Rabbit from Halifax, Vy Yen Luong children’s dresses, Marina words dresses and children’s classic nightwear.

Mrs Barton would also like to thank all the gypsy and traveller community that have all donated towards the raffle prizes.