CHILDREN at Consett Junior School raised £325 for victims of the Boxing Day tsunami disaster in south-east Asia.

The students' council decided to hold a non-uniform day to raise cash for the thousands of people who have been affected by the disaster.

Pupils were asked to pay £1 and were allowed to attend in casual dress but many paid more, some up to £5, to provide aid.

Year six teacher David Jackson said: "For many of the children this is the first major thing that has happened in their lives and they were keen to get involved.

"They are very much aware of people who are less fortunate than themselves and wanted to show they are doing what they can to help."

Other fundraising events in the district include:

* Parents of Consett Infant School pupils raised almost £580 for the disaster fund. The money was raised after acting headteacher Jill Stephenson sent out a letter to guardians asking for contributions.

* St Cuthbert's Church at Benfieldside, near Consett, is holding a coffee morning on Saturday, in the church hall, between 10am and noon. There are cakes, stalls and a tombola available. Entry is £1.

* Medomsley Methodist Church is holding a coffee morning in the church hall on Saturday. It will be held between 10am and noon with cakes stalls, books for sale along with assorted bric-a-brac.

* Delves Lane Community Association has raised £162 .The Association wishes to thank everyone who responded to the appeal.