A BLUES band whose members include North-East MEP Stephen Hughes helped send a student on a gap year project.

The Vast Majorities played a fundraising concert at Carmel RC College, Darlington, on Saturday night, raising at least £600.

The money will go to various charities, including student Sian Taylor, who is planning a gap year working in an orphanage in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Sian, from Harrowgate Hill, Darlington, joined event organiser Mike Webster, former head of English at the school, on stage.

The concert also featured singer Peter Shields, who performed with the group.

Mr Hughes, who was seeking re-election last week, and his wife, Darlington Borough councillor Cyndi Hughes, had been due to perform but both were unable to attend.