A VILLAGE fun day has raised almost £3,000 for good causes.

The eighth annual Hamsterley Hoppings attracted hundreds of people of all ages to the Teesdale village of Hamsterley, near Bishop Auckland, yesterday (Sunday, August 24).

The event celebrates rural life and visitors enjoyed a varied a host of countryside activities, including sheepdog trials, vintage tractors displays, a hog roast and traditional games, such as skittles, tug-of-war competitions and a coconut shy.

There were also food and craft stalls, a pet show and a pop up tea room in Hamsterley Village Hall selling homemade cakes and savouries.

Since its launch, the event has raised more than £20,000 for various charities and this year it continued its fundraising tradition, raising around £2,500 for Butterwick Hospice.

A donation of £400 will also be given to Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team and further small donations will be made to Bishop Auckland Air Training Corps Cadets and Jack Drum Arts, based in Crook, to thank them for their help on the day.

Peter Christensen, treasurer of the Hamsterley Hoppings Organising Committee, said: “It was a fantastic day and we were blessed with glorious sunshine.

"The event was a great success and we would like to thank the many volunteers who gave up their time on the day and before and after.

“Without their help we would be lost.”

Mr Christensen said the village was proud to have raised funds for Butterwick Hospice, adding: “It is a local charity and most families have encountered serious illnesses. It means a lot to know that th there is support and care on our doorsteps if we need it.”