AN author has helped to raise more than £600 for charity with a book telling of her childhood memories.

Jean Wade, a member of the Bennet House Writers group, in Darlington, sold copies of her book, Half a Jelly Bean, at a coffee morning in aid of St Teresa's Hospice.

The book features a series of short stories inspired by her memories of growing up in Weardale.

Sales of the book raised £420 and the coffee morning raised £250.

Group founder member Mary Sweeton said: "We hold a charity coffee morning every year and choose a local cause to benefit.

"One of our members was cared for at the hospice before she sadly passed away, so this was our chance to do something to recognise the hard work of St Teresa's."

Hospice director Jane Bradshaw said: "This is yet another fantastic fundraising effort and we are very grateful to the Bennet House Writers."