A SCHEME to encourage council-tax payers to switch to direct debit will help charity.

Stockton Borough Council will donate £1 to the Mayor of Stockton's two chosen charities for every new direct debit set up this year.

Up to £2,000 could be donated to the Great North Air Ambulance and the Butterwick Hospice if enough tax-payers take up the payment method.

A picture designed by Polly Willis, 13, from Abbey Hill School Technology College, in Stockton, is on the back of every direct debit application.

Debbie Hurwood, Stockton council's head of taxation and administration, said: "This is a real way residents can both help the charities."

For details about direct debit, call (01642) 397108.