FAIRYTALE figures have waived their magic wands to raise hundreds of pounds for charity.

Staff at Newcastle City Council's Business Development Unit have collected £570 for The Rainbow Trust, by dressing up as pantomime characters.

The workers donned their costumes and visited Newcastle Civic Centre on December 23, where they collected money for the North-East charity, which supports families with children suffering terminal or life-threatening conditions.

Liz Langfield, business development manager for strategic support, said: "The Rainbow Trust does fantastic work for children and their families and we were delighted to support this wonderful cause while celebrating the festive season.

"We would also like to thank our colleagues throughout the council who have helped us raise over £1,700 for charity and good causes throughout the year."