AN entire community came together to raise more than £10,000 to improve the facilities at Wark First School, as it converts to a primary in September.

A promise auction held earlier this month saw more than 120 lots up for auction in a varied catalogue donated by local businesses and residents to support the school.

Wark Sports Club was packed to the rafters as more than 100 people took part in a bidding frenzy which saw many lots exceed their expected value.

Organisers were overwhelmed at the final amount after only £3,000 to £4,000 was expected to be raised.

Chris Armstrong, auctioneer at Hexham Mart and auctioneer on the night, said: “It was a real display of genuine community spirit that highlighted the folk of Wark, the North Tyne and our rural region in general as having hearts of gold.”

Amanda Taylor, headteacher of Wark First School, added: “We’re really grateful for the overwhelming support of the whole community in helping raise so much money.”