THE skies over a North-East town were filled with 2,000 balloons yesterday, released in aid of a national children's charity.

Darlington's mayor, Councillor Isobel Hartley, joined staff from Orange to release the balloons.

At the same time, Orange staff in Bristol, Hertford and Plymouth released balloons to raise money for the National Children's Home (NCH).

Each balloon was fitted with a tag, bought by an Orange worker.

The owner of the balloon that travels the furthest will win a prize.

NCH is Orange's national registered charity and, in the last year, staff across the country raised more than £31,000, with staff in the North-East raising £16,000. The NCH has projects in Darlington, Middlesbrough, Newcastle, and the east Durham towns of Murton and Seaham.

Councillor Hartley said, "I am delighted to be involved with Orange in an event which will benefit children both in Darlington and around the country.