RESIDENTS in Teesside can have a cup of tea while raising money for charity.

Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond is urging local people to support the town's hospice by holding tea parties.

The re-elected mayor is urging friends, neighbours, relatives and work colleagues to hold tea parties on June 17 to generate cash for Hartlepool and District Hospice by making a donation for every cup of tea they drink.

The drive is part of a national campaign, the Tea At Three initiative, which aims to raise money for hospices up and down the UK.

Mr Drummond said: "This is a really simple but effective way of raising money. The good thing is that all money raised in this area will go directly to Hartlepool and District Hospice to benefit local people.

"I would urge people to give up a little bit of their time and support the hospice by enjoying a cup of tea on June 17."

For further information about Tea At Three or support with running an event, contact Hartlepool and District Hospice on (01429) 855530.