A MEMBER of staff from a Darlington shopping centre is hoping to clean up at a family fun day organised to raise funds for a local hospice.

Tracy Sherlock, one of the cleaning staff at the Cornmill, in the town centre, has organised the event, which is due to take place on Saturday (May 25).

It will be held at Central Club, in Arden Street, to raise money for St Teresa’s Hospice.

Cornmill staff were inspired by a colleague, Russell Longstaff, who was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The fun bank holiday family event will feature a children’s fancy dress competition, disco, cake stand, raffle and tombola, with a number of businesses from the Cornmill donating prizes, food and drink to ensure that as much money as possible will be donated to the charity.

Ms Sherlock, who has worked with Mr Longstaff, the shopping centre’s service yard supervisor, for several years, said: “I wanted to do something positive to show my support for Russell and his family.

“St Teresa’s does fantastic work and they’ve also supported family members in the past.

“I hope that the family fun day raises lots of valuable funds and that plenty of people get to enjoy a great afternoon out in the process.

“I’m very grateful for all of the donations from businesses in the centre and the support I’ve had from colleagues, friends and family.”

Tickets for the family fun day are priced at £5 per child and can be purchased on the day. The event will take place between noon and 4pm.

For more information about the fundraising drive, call 01325-369111 or email info@cornmillcentre.co.uk