LEWIS Carroll's Mad Hatter escaped from Wonderland and the Queen of Hearts long enough to drink a toast to Queen Elizabeth in Hartlepool.

The Mad Hatter naturally threw a tea party at the Middleton Grange shopping centre, which included bun eating competitions.

Girls were also given the chance to be crowned the Middleton Grange Jubilee Queen.

Centre manager Cormac Hamilton said: "We know how difficult it can be to keep children amused and I am confident we have entertainment that will add to the celebrations and show allow all the family to enjoy this holiday period."