YOUNG carers got an early Easter treat when they visited a mobile phone company's communications centre.

Staff at Orange, in Peterlee, donated 100 chocolate eggs to youngsters who care for disabled or ill relatives and are supported by the Barnardo's Easington Young Carers Service, which operates in Peterlee, Seaham, Murton, South Hetton, Easington, Shotton and Trimdon Colliery.

Staff at Orange have donated eggs to Barnardo's for the past four Easters, but this year donated more than ever, which meant that children at The Hive, a Barnardo's family centre in Houghton-le-Spring, were also able to enjoy the treats.

Sharon Young, head of Orange's centre said: "As always, our staff have shown their generosity in donating so many eggs for the young carers.

"Throughout the year, Orange employees regularly fundraise for a variety of worthy causes and charitable organisations.

"Barnardo's does excellent work through a range of projects in the area and we are delighted to be able to support them.''

John Atkinson, of Easington Young Carers, said: "We're delighted that Barnardo's has been chosen again this year.

"It's great for the children and it's good to see companies supporting work with children in the area in which they are based.'