TRAFFIC warden Ian McCarthy came up with just the ticket for a charity fundraising effort.

Known for his caring nature by people who meet him on his regular beat in Crook, he collected £500 for breast cancer research by going through a painful leg wax.

He adopted the smooth look during a Pink Party at the Perfect Retreat beauty salon in Hope Street, Crook, where owner Nicola Wailes and her staff laid on a day of events.

Ms Wailes said: "Ian is brilliant. Everybody knows him. He helps out wherever he can. He is not a typical traffic warden.

"He even plumbed our washing machine in. He is lovely.

"We chose to raise money for breast cancer because most of our clients are female and it is an issue close to all women.

"It seems that everybody knows somebody affected by it."

Mr McCarthy said: "Breast cancer research is a very good cause. The disease can affect anyone, not only the person suffering but also their partners, families and friends.

"When staff at the beauty parlour suggested the sponsored leg wax, I didn't have the heart to say no."

Perfect Retreat's effort could bring in as much as £1,000. Fundraising took place all last week. To make a donation, telephone (01388) 765594.