WOMEN'S Institute members added a sparkle to some lifesaving fundraising when they collected sacks full of jewellery for heart research.

WI members have hunted their unwanted or broken jewels to turn them into cash for the National Heart Research Fund's Treasure Chest appeal.

Delegates took them to the Durham Federation annual meeting in Cockton Hill Methodist Church, Bishop Auckland, where they were collected by treasure chest fund trustee David Eastham.

He will deliver the jewellery to Bonhams Auctioneers who will auction the pieces later this year.

Since the late Jill Dando launched the Treasure Chest appeal in 1997, WI members across the country have raised almost £120,000 towards research into the prevention, treatment and cure of what is Britain's biggest killer disease.

WI county chairwoman Audrey Flanagan, from Sedgefield, said: "The jewellery was collected in envelopes which filled seven sacks.

"This is the second time Durham County has supported this charity because it helps so many people.

"We all know somebody or have someone in our family who is affected by heart problems.

"At the same time it is one of our aims and objectives to improve people's health and this fits in with this theme."