PUNTERS at a popular boozer have got stars in their eyes as they take on a true Christmas classic to raise money for charity.

Customers of the Black Bull in Dalton have banded together to create a rendition of the number one hit Do They Know It's Christmas?

This novel idea was born out of the pub's longstanding support of St Mary's Hospice and one customer's creative suggestion to make money.

Landlord Mike Macaulay said: "We've done quite a few charity events in the past and we usually do it for St Mary's Hospice because my dad passed away two years ago and spent a bit of time there. They also provided us with care from home support.

"They were just great. I personally can't thank them enough for what they did for my dad."

Mr Macaulay was talking about his experience with a couple of customers one night when one regular suggested creating a special Christmas video to the 1980's hit.

A group of loyal customers then put their creative minds together to create a showstopping cover of the festive favourite.

Pub regulars gave up two weekends to create the novelty video and the whole community has rallied behind the idea to spread a little Christmas cheer.

Mr Macaulay said: "The response has been great. At first we did it as a bit of a giggle and laugh and hoped we could raise a couple of hundred pounds but it's reached thousands of people and had thousands of shares."

So far the video has raised £1106 but fundraisers are hoping to boost funds to reach the £1500 mark.

The team originally set the bar at £500 but have had to keep raising it to keep up with donations.

Mr Macaulay said: "It's great. It has been a privilege doing it we've got everyone talking about it. It's just been amazing really."

The video has caught the attention of people around the world, with friends and family from Australia and Gran Canaria liking and sharing the video.

Despite the success of the video, Mr Macaulay is particularly pleased to raise so much money for St Mary's and believes it to be the perfect gift this Christmas.

A JustGiving site has been set up and Mr Macaulay and his troupe of talented customers are encouraging people far and wide to dig deep for the cause.

He said: "The hospice has touched a lot of people's lives in one way or another.

"Everyone knows someone whether it's a friend or family member who has received treatment there or potentially will.

"They just do a great job and it's great to see the community coming together for a good laugh."