NORTH-EAST children have joined thousands from across the country to take part in the World's Biggest Sing.

The event was organised by Young Voices, who hoped to raise thousands of pounds for children and young people with cancer.

Pupils from County Durham schools St Joseph's RCVA primary, in Coundon, near Bishop Auckland, and Nettlesworth primary, between Durham and Chester-le-Street, did their bit to boost funds for the Sargent Cancer Care For Children charity.

St Joseph's headteacher, Stefa McManners, said pupils had enjoyed taking part.

She said: "They sang beautifully and were really enthusiastic about the whole thing."

Children at Nettlesworth gave up several lunch breaks to rehearse the song For A Better Tomorrow before their final performance yesterday under the guidance of teacher Donna Tindale.

Headteacher Lee Roberts said: "They've worked very hard and put their hearts and souls into it today, doing all the actions as well as singing."

Julia Jones, of Sargent Cancer Care For Children, said: "We are thrilled that these schools from County Durham have taken part and cannot thank them enough for all the money they are raising to help children with cancer."