A MOBILE phone shop will mark its second anniversary by releasing 1,000 balloons in a charity fundraising competition.

Talkabout, in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, has operated in the town for two years.

Store owner Billy Lau wanted to do something special to celebrate the anniversary and the fact he has been in business for ten years.

All money raised from the charity balloon launch will go to the Butterwick Hospice in Bishop Auckland.

The balloons are available for £1 from the shop or from charity events organised by the hospice. They will be released outside the store on Saturday, August 31.

The owner of the balloon that flies the furthest will win a hot-air balloon flight for four people over the Lake District.

The person that finds the winning balloon will receive 100 euros.

Margaret Fowler, from the hospice, said: "Any money raised through the balloon race will be greatly appreciated by the hospice."