VOLUNTEERS have climbed to the top of a North-East landmark to raise money for charity.

Around 50 people climbed the 325 steps of the tower of Durham Cathedral in support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association on Saturday.

The event was held in memory of George Brown, from Ferryhill, who died from the disease last year aged 73.

His niece, Debra Swinburn, who lives in Bishop Auckland, said around £500 had been raised.

She said: "It is a charity that is very close to our heart. It is not a very well known disease.

"As well as the fundraising, the main aim is to raise awareness about it.

"The view from the top of the tower is amazing; you could see Penshaw Moument, the prison, the castle and all of the details of the River Wear.

"It shows Durham at its best."

The MNDA funds and promotes research aimed at ending motor neurone disease, a progressive, fatal illness which leaves people unable to walk, talk or feed themselves.