CHILDREN seeking sanctuary from a miserable Christmas will be given extra cheer this year, from the fundraising efforts of a town's police and business community.
Licensees and traders in Bishop Auckland helped officers raise £1,102.50 for a refuge, which takes in women and children fleeing violence at home.
The money came from a disco at Bishop Auckland Town Hall, attended by 250 people.
It was handed over by Newton Cap landlady Christine Peart, who is a member of the Bishop Auckland Town Centre Licensing Association.
Sergeant Andrea Clayton said: "We are aware of how much the refuge does for troubled families.
"The fundraising worked well because, as well as helping the refuge, it was a chance to bring partners together and cement the relationship between people in the shops, pubs and other businesses."
Other officers involved were PCs Sarah Jackson and Dave McChesney, and town centre liaison officer PC Justin Thornberry.
Louise Brown, who runs the refuge with Fiona Nichol, said it was "tremendous support".
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