GEORDIE duo Ant and Dec raised more than £54,000 at the first Northern Stars Charity Ball in aid of Just for Kids.

The event was held at the Newcastle and Gateshead Hilton Hotel, where guests were treated to a version of Saturday Night Takeaway.

Sixteen individuals and children's projects from across the North-East were promised essential funding and support from the local charity.

Ant McPartlin said: "It's important to us that when we put our names to something, we do it long- term and make the effort to show our support."

The TV stars thrilled guests with their infamous style of humour and threatened Newcastle United chairman Freddie Shepherd with a Bush Tucker Challenge.

Local comedian Brendan Healy inspired the audience's generosity during a celebrity auction and a meet and greet with Will Young generated £2,000.

Declan Donnelly said "It always means a lot to us when we are able to help children's charities, especially Just for Kids, as all the money stays in the North-East."

Just for Kids manager Stephanie Buchanan hailed the night a massive success.

She said: "We are incredibly grateful to Ant and Dec and everyone who donated their time and skills to make it a night to remember.

"Thanks to all involved, we can now make even more magical moments for disadvantaged children in our region."