BELLS store chain is hoping that its gift of 100 Easter bunnies to Teesside Hospice will help to boost funds.

Sarah Dawson, activities and events co-ordinator at the hospice, said: "We have 100 Easter bunnies which we hope will get raffled around the Teesside area in order to help raise much-needed funds for the hospice. Last year's Easter raffles raised an amazing £5,000 for the hospice and we are hoping that this year's Easter extravaganza brings in even more.

"All we are asking is that anyone who has a few spare minutes to sell tickets to their work colleagues, friends, family or local clubs.

"Along with supplying the prize we will also provide official hospice notification and a book of raffle tickets. Then all that is needed is to sell the tickets.''

The hospice, which has annual running costs of more than £1.6m, can arrange to drop off a bunny for anyone interested in holding a raffle.

For further details, ring (01642) 355866.