A FAMILY fun day held at a castle has helped raise £800 for two nominated charities.

Walworth Castle Hotel, near Darlington, held a fun day on Bank Holiday Monday at the end of May to raise cash for its named charities, Heighington BP Scouts and the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

The day featured craft stalls, fairground rides, donkey rides and a Punch and Judy show.

Organisers said that the annual event was well-attended and the rain held off for most of the day.

Rachel Swain, a director of Walworth Castle, said: "We are thrilled to have raised money for these worthwhile causes.

"We host lots of events throughout the year and our aim is to raise money for charity, have fun, and put on a great event for people to enjoy.

"Our next event is our free annual car show, which is taking place at the castle on Sunday, July 7 where hopefully we can raise even more cash."

Alan Wilson from Heighington Scout Group said on the group's Facebook page: "What a fantastic night. I want to give huge thanks to Chris (Swain) and his team for such a generous donation."

Hannah Powell, from the Great North Air Ambulance Service, said: "We appreciate the fundraising which Walworth Castle have given to us."

Chris Swain, fellow director of Walworth Castle Hotel, presented a large cheque to David Greaves of Heighington Scout Group.

The 32-bedroom castle was built in 1189 and employs 45 staff.