AN auction to raise funds for Hurworth Comprehensive School's bid for specialist status has been hailed a success.
More than 100 lots were auctioned by Look North presenter John Lawrence at the event on Friday.
A total of £2,805 was raised at the auction - beating last year's figure.
The most expensive lots were a trip to Italy, which went for £420, and a weekend in Edinburgh, which was auctioned for £365.
Teacher Rita Rees said: "We got twice as much as we expected. It was an excellent evening. We got about 110 people and John Lawrence was fantastic."
The school must raise £50,000 by October 1 as its contribution towards a £500,000 Government grant, if the bid for specialist status is to be successful.
A donation of £400 has also been received by the school from Freemasons in Darlington, £100 from St Cuthbert's Lodge and £300 from the Restoration Lodge.
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