IT was a case of up and away as youngsters gave their support to a charity fundraising drive.

A balloon race was held at Sacriston Nursery and Infants School to boost the coffers of the Cot Death Society.

The event was held for Christine Oxley, of Witton Gilbert, whose year-old son, Joe Weldon, has the potentially-fatal condition sleep apnoea and was lent a sleep monitor by the charity.

She is holding a charity night at Witton Gilbert Workingmen's Club on Wednesday.

She hopes to raise more around £1,000 - the cost of two monitors.

The evening will feature a grand raffle, performance by top local group Envy and an appearance by the legendary 1970s' Newcastle United and England striker Malcolm MacDonald.

Christine said: "We think we have raised £125 for the charity with the balloon race and it was a great success, all the kids loved it.

"The first four or five balloons that are returned first or go the furthest will win prizes.

"The school wanted to do something to support the fund-raising drive and I suggested this.''

Christine added: "There are only about 40 tickets left and we are hoping the night will be a sell-out.''

Tickets cost £2 and are available from the club.