STAFF from a pensions company took part in an event to raise funds for St Teresa's Hospice, in Darlington.

Eighteen staff members from Pensions Management joined Knockout 2005 at Blackwell's Meadows Rugby Club, at the weekend.

It is the second time the Darlington company has participated in the event, which is based on the popular television programme It's A Knockout.

This year, the team raised more than £800.

Deputy managing director David Maddison said: "It's fantastic to see our staff come together at events like this to raise money for a great cause and I think it's very important for businesses to support local causes in this way.

"Since St Teresa's is our dedicated charity for the year, we were really eager to take part in Knockout 2005 to raise money for the hospice.

"We've managed to reach our target of £800 so, hopefully, this will help the adult hospice with the incredible work they do in the local community."

St Teresa's is a hospice that provides both in-patients day-care and home visits for adults across the region.

Jane Bradshaw, director of St Teresa's, said: "The £800 donation will really help with the costs of running the hospice and we look forward to future fundraisers that Pensions Management can take part in."