A LEADING businessman has been promoting his safe families campaign.

Sir Peter Vardy, who made millions in the motor trade, addressed a County Durham Community Foundation (CDCF) forum on Safe Families for Children, which seeks to support needy families.

The event, held at Durham University Business School, was to promote The Philanthropy Fellowship, a network that aims to inspire more charitable giving in the UK.

Among the guests were Sue Snowdon, Lord Lieutenant of County Durham, and Darlington business leader Alasdair McConachie.

Barbara Gubbins, chief executive of the County Durham Community Foundation (CDCG), highlighted the growing philanthropy in the North-East and said the region was lucky to have individuals such as Sir Peter.

The foundation hopes to hold more such events in 2014.