A FATHER has been overwhelmed by the level of support from villagers and friends to raise money for his injured son.

Ben Woods, 17, from Hurworth, near Darlington, lost his right arm and left leg after being struck by a train in July.

The Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College student has been fitted with prosthetic limbs, but friends hope to raise enough money to buy him more advanced equipment.

Paul Nixon, landlord of the Station Hotel, Hurworth, organised a charity auction at the weekend.

Supporters donated lots, including Christmas cake, fish caught in the Tees and a 45- minute flight over the area.

The pub was packed and bidders raised £3,800 on the night, bringing the total fund to nearly £5,000.

Ben's father, Paul Woods, said: "I'm speechless. I have not got the words to describe it. There were people I haven't seen for years who showed up spending money which they could well do with spending on other things. Ben was really touched by it as well."

More events are planned, including a quiz night at the Traveller's Rest pub in Cockerton, and a table football night in the Turks Head in Darlington's Bondgate.