Michael James Opticians has raised £1,200 for this year's chosen charity, Epilepsy Research UK, through a variety of activities, including a balloon race, a visit to the outlet by the Star Wars stormtroopers, completion of The Great North Run by owner Garrey Haase and donation of a percentage of fees charged during open days.

Local MP, Ian Cawsey, was on hand to present the cheque to customer Adele Earl, who had asked the opticians to raise money for the charity after losing her son to epilepsy.

Mr Cawsey said: "I was delighted to be able to take part in the cheque presentation to Epilepsy Research UK of the funds raised by Michael James Opticians. It was another good year for their chosen charity with over £1,200 raised, which was an excellent result.

"We all know that 2009 was not easy for business and the fact that Michael James still decided to put a lot of time and effort into charity fundraising says a lot about the people who work there and I know how much these funds will be welcomed.

"The 2010 appeal is for Diabetes UK and I look forward to helping make that appeal another successful one".