A CHARITY fitness event has been held over the weekend to raise money to help fight cancer.

Proceeds of the three hour bokwathon and zumbathon will go to the Surgical Oncology Fund at Durham’s University Hospital of North Durham.

It was held at the Pelton Community Centre, Front Street, Pelton, Chester-le-Street, and organised by fitness instructor Maria Tyson.

Bokwa uses African dance beats to help people exercise while Zumba incorporates Latin music Miss Tyson, 39, of Chester-le-Street, said: "There was a brilliant atmosphere, absolutely fabulous.

"People fully embraced it and got into the spirit of the new bokwa class.

"I would like to say a big thank you to people and businesses who donated prizes for the raffle."

Miss Tyson is planning a similar event in January.