Hartlepool's DJ fraternity gathered for the party in honour of Mark Lennon, who died aged 37, just days after being struck down with a mystery illness in December.

Mark's friends and family joined musicians at the town's Fever nightclub, in Church Street, for a night of mixed emotions.

Chris Lavender, 34, known as DJ Crazy Chris, had his distinctive hairstyle, which he has had for 16 years, shaved off to raise money.

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Meanwhile, plucky George Stuart, 48, who DJs at Fever, also got his legs and chest shaved off to boost funds. He eventually raised more than £200.

The money was initially planned to go towards a bench in Mark's memory, but it has since been decided that the Great North Air Ambulance should benefit, a charity nominated by Mark's mum.

Organisers have decided to hold another event to fund the bench on Mark's birthday in August.

Chris, who also DJs at Loons, said: "It was a cracking night and it was nice to remember him.

"It was mixed emotions. There was some tears in the house."

Mark's mum Etty Lennon, 67, went along to the night, called Respect, as well as his sister Carole Sullivan, 43, brother Peter Lennon, 44, and partner Sue Morvan. Altogether about 60 people attended.

Keith Smith, who also DJs at Loons, went to the event, on January 25, dressed as the late Michael Jackson.

Mark, who worked in Loons bar in Victoria Road, was found dead by Sue in the bathroom of the home they shared in Moffat Road, Hartlepool, on December 9.

Mark complained of feeling ill two days prior but an inquest heard tests are yet to confirm the cause of death.

Etty said: "It was a brilliant night. The DJs are really lovely and I was proud to see so many people turn out.

"We did not realise people from outside the family loved him as much as we did."