THE Great North Air Ambulance has received a financial boosts thanks to the efforts of a team of funeral directors.

The staff from the Co-operative Funeralcare, in Stockton, handed over a cheque for more than £4,700 to the charity after a special black-tie event at Redworth Hall, near Heighington.

More than 100 people attended the fundraiser where there was a raffle and auction, with signed Liverpool and Middlesbrough shirts auctioned off as well as an iPad and holiday to Spain and signed pictures of the X-factor’s Nicole Scherzinger and Tulisa.

David Knowles, from The Co-operative Funeralcare, said: “The air ambulance provides a vital life-saving service in the region and we are delighted to have raised much needed funds to support its work.

“We are grateful for all the gifts which were provided for the auction and for those who attended the black-tie event and made it such a special occasion by raising so much money.”