A THOUSAND balloons took to the sky this weekend as shoppers did their bit to support the Butterwick Hospice.
The balloon race was launched by Bishop Auckland mobile phone shop Talkabout as it celebrated its second year of trading in the town's Newgate Street.
Customers bought balloons for £1 each which were released into the sky at 4pm on Saturday. Money raised goes to the Butterwick Hospice in Bishop Auckland, as it continues to provide services for terminally ill patients.
Store owner Billy Lau said the balloon race was an ideal way to celebrate ten years in business as well as the shop's second anniversary.
He said: "I wanted to show my customers that they are appreciated and to provide help to a local worthwhile cause at the same time.''
The owner of the balloon which is found furthest away will win a balloon flight for four people over the Lake District.
The person who finds the winning balloon will win 100 Euros
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