A YOUNGSTER was given a special birthday treat this week when she was named the winner of a charity balloon race.

Six-year-old Lauren Moore, from Bishop Auckland, will take to the sky in a hot air balloon across the Lake District after her winning entry was found in Halsteren, Holland.

The youngster, who celebrated her birthday on Monday, (DEC2) paid £1 to enter the balloon race at mobile phone store Talkabout, in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, in September.

The event marked the store's second year in Newgate Street and owner Billy Lau's tenth anniversary in business.

Mr Lau donated the proceeds, which was £443, to the Butterwick Hospice, in Bishop Auckland.

Lauren's mother Patricia said her daughter was thrilled that her balloon had travelled the furthest.

She said: "Lauren bought the balloon to give the pound to the hospice and never expected to win.

"We were very surprised to hear that the balloon managed to travel all the way to Holland but we're delighted to have won.

"Lauren wants to take the whole family on the ride with her including brother Craig, ten, and sister Gemma, 14, so we are all really looking forward to it.''

Sylvia Stoneham from the Butterwick Hospice said: "The money raised is greatly appreciated and we will be able to use it to improve the quality of life for our patients.''