A CHARITY line dancing night has proven a “boot scootin” success after raising more than £1,600 for a County Durham cancer unit.

The event, at West Auckland Memorial Hall on April 27, saw more than 80 people enjoy an action packed evening of dancing and live country and western music in aid of the Mara Unit at Bishop Auckland Hospital.

Organised by Helen Smith, a teacher at Line Star Dance Club, and Val Meads, who received treatment at the unit, the event also featured two raffles and a tombola.

Miss Smith, 21, of Bishop Auckland, wanted to do something for the unit as her grandfather George Reed has also benefited from its care.

“Quite a few of the people who come to my classes also have family members who have been treated at the Mara unit,” she said.

“It is perhaps not something you hear about until someone you love needs their help.”

Before presenting the cheque for £1,660 to Dr Mohsen Mahmoud and Sister Lynn Elliott today (Thursday, May 14), Miss Smith stressed that it was a “team effort” and thanked Julie Knaggs, PJ Badrick, Les Vollans, Dave Ritchie and Dave Inglis for their support.

Ms Elliott said the money would help pay for therapists and equipment to provide aromatherapy sessions to patients.

Dr Mahmoud added: “Obviously the money is very helpful but it means so much more to know it has come from the community we serve.”