CHILDREN seeking sanctuary from a miserable Christmas will be given some extra cheer this year from the fundraising efforts of a town's police and business community.
Licensees and traders in Bishop Auckland helped officers raise £1,102 for a refuge that takes in women and children fleeing violence.
The money came from a disco at Bishop Auckland Town Hall. It was handed over by Newton Cap landlady Christine Peart, a member of the Bishop Auckland Town Centre Licensing Association.
Sgt Andrea Clayton, one of a team of beat officers patrolling the town, said: "We are aware of just how much the women's refuge does for troubled families. They are a real lifeline to women and children in need."
Other officers involved were PCs Sarah Jackson and Dave McChesney and town centre liaison officer PC Justin Thornberry.
Louise Brown, who runs the refuge with Fiona Nichol, added: "It is tremendous to get this sort of help from the people of Bishop Auckland.
"Some of our families come to us with absolutely nothing and we appreciate any help we can give them.
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