LEADING figures in the North-East were put behind bars yesterday, sparking a desperate hunt for surety money for bail.

A dozen unlikely detainees were taken into the custody suite at Sunderland's Stadium of Light, as part of a regional fundraising effort for the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB).

Tyne and Wear Chief FIre Officer Richard Bull, Sunderland Mayor Councillor Ken Murray, and Sunderland AFC's security officer, ex-police officer John Davidson, joined business representatives in the cells.

They went through the full procedure for match-day arrests, having photographs taken with an accompanying serial number, being fingerprinted and placed in the custody suite.

The detainees were allowed to make phone calls to find sponsors to put up at least £500 to buy their freedom.

On their release they were treated to a champagne reception and buffet lunch in the stadium's directors' suite.

The event raised £8,500 for the regional activities of the RNIB. With further pledges the total raised is expected to pass the £10,000 mark.

Anyone wishing to add to the money pledged can do so by telephoning the RNIB fundraising line on 0772-078 2953.