CHARITY "convicts" set off on a great escape from the appropriately named Court Inn yesterday.

Pairs of convicts raising money for ChildLine Yorkshire and North-East aimed to get as far away from the Durham pub as possible in 24 hours with the help of family, friends and the public.

ChildLine fundraising organiser Daniela Slanickova said: "We can't wait to see how far the teams manage to travel.

"It's a tough challenge but they are all relying on the support of those around them.

"If you see a pair of convicts on the run, try to resist making a citizen's arrest - give them some money instead.

"Every penny raised will help children in the North-East who call ChildLine in need of comfort, advice and protection."