YOUNG people in Darlington are to spend a year fundraising in aid of a hospice.

It is the first time that youngsters in the town have selected a charity of the year - but hopes are high that the children and teenagers can raise at least £2,000 in 12 months for St Teresa's Hospice, in Darlington.

Kevin Nicholson, the town's member of the youth parliament, consulted students at every secondary school and college, asking them to choose a charity to support.

He was amazed when eight out of 12 youngsters chose St Teresa's Hospice.

He hopes that various groups of young people will hold at least one fundraising event a month.

Hospice director Jane Bradshaw said: "We feel really privileged to be nominated by young people and would like to thank them for placing high faith in their local hospice."

There will also be collections in schools and youth clubs.

Kevin is also planning a range of activities, including a bag pack at Morrisons over the Christmas period, car washing in Red Hall, and possibly an abseil down Newcastle's Tyne Bridge.

He said: "The young people of Darlington are very keen to get out and raise funds for the hospice.

"They understand that being part of the community is not just about receiving, but about giving back as well. They appreciate the true value of the hospice and how its work effects everyone in the whole community - young and old."

The hospice has been providing care in Darlington and surrounding districts for more than 19 years.

All services are free to patients and carers.