THERE will be a yellow hue in shops, pubs, hairdressers and restaurants as they join forces to promote The Butterwick Hospice.

The launch of Hospice Awareness Week begins in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, on Friday, and local firms have promised to support the charity.

During the week, which runs until Saturday June 29, a series of yellow events will be held throughout the town and surrounding area.

A sunflower parade along Newgate Street, on Friday, from noon, will launch the event.

Next Monday, the hospice, in Woodhouse Lane, will hold an anniversary dinner for supporters of the charity. Tickets cost £8.

Sedgefield village fete, on the Tuesday, and a splat the bather in a bath of custard event at Bishop Auckland's Asda supermarket on the Wednesday, from 10am to 4pm, will also help boost hospice funds.

There will be a Yellow Pages pub quiz on the Thursday, and firms and schools are urged to let staff and pupils dress in yellow on the Friday.

The final day of events, on Saturday, June 29, will see the hospice hold an open morning with refreshments, crafts and a sunflower-growing contest.

About 30 local businesses have pledged to support the event with window displays or yellow events, and Councillor Philip Thompson, chairman of Shildon Town Council, has chosen the Butterwick Hospice as his charity for the year.

One firm supporting the event is Trimmers Hairdressing, in Bishop Auckland. Staff will wear yellow sashes and donate ten per cent of takings for hair colourings.

Fundraiser Sylvia Stoneham said: "I'm amazed at the response of local businesses.

"They seem more happy than ever to support the Butterwick, and I hope the local community will join in the fun events during Hospice Awareness Week."

For details of the events call Sylvia on (01388) 603003.