STAFF at a County Durham firm have raised more than £200 for a scheme aiming to spread festive cheer across Darlington.

Saul Kennedy, who works for Lucite International, in Newton Aycliffe, has been raising money for the Giving Tree appeal - and persuaded his colleagues to get involved too.

The money will be used to buy presents and make up hampers for Giving Tree, which brings Christmas gifts to needy and vulnerable people throughout Darlington.

He handed the money over to the Grumbleweeds, who are starring in Darlington Civic Theatre's pantomime, Beauty and the Beast.

Mr Kennedy said: "It is a great event and helps those less fortunate in our community.

"I am pleased to have been able to make a contribution and thank my colleagues and Lucite International for their help."

Tomorrow is the deadline for gifts to be left, unwrapped, at drop-off points across the town.

They can be left at Asda, in Whinbush Way, Darlington; Travelcare at the Morrisons store in North Road; the Herald and Post office, in Oak Yard, and the borough council's social services office in Gladstone Street.