A VILLAGE pub launched a charity fundraising weekend last night in aid of a cause close to the landlord's and landlady's hearts.

Sue and David Baldwin, owners of The Queens Head, in Cockfield, Teesdale, have organised a packed weekend of events to raise money for the Children's Liver Disease Foundation.

Their five-year-old niece, who lives in South Shields, has a rare liver disease called A1 antitrypsin deficiency, which can only be cured with a transplant.

Mrs Baldwin said: "We have only been in Cockfield since March last year, but already the locals are very supportive and are really helping with the weekend. We are confident we can make money for the charity to help fund research into rare conditions, and everyone will have a good time this weekend."

Last night the pub hosted live music and a raffle.

Tonight there will be a country and western theme, with fancy dress, music and a barbecue, from 7pm.

On Sunday afternoon, there will be an auction including signed footballs, a games console and signed EastEnders name plaque.

At 3.30pm, plumber David Finn will have his head shaved to raise money for the appeal.