Care worker Michael Allen underwent a hair-raising experience when he had his chest and legs waxed for charity.

The care assistant at Warrior Park care home in Seaton Carew, Hartlepool offered to go through with the painful experience to help pay towards events and activities for the home's elderly residents.

Michael, 23, was forced to bite his tongue as a student beautician from Hartlepool College of Education tore strips off him.

He yelled out several times as Melissa Pasa put hot wax on his chest before ripping the hair away with a quick flick of the wrist.

Friends, staff and residents gathered around to watch the waxing, which took about an hour.

Afterwards Michael, 23, of Owton Manor, Hartlepool, said: "It was painful, very painful. I feel sore now."

But he added: "I think it was worth it, it wasn't that bad."

Michael collected £270 in sponsorship, and proceeds from a cheese and wine afternoon took the total to more than £300.

Linda Hutchinson, Warrior Park manager, said: "I think it is really brilliant what Michael has done, he is a really valued member of staff.

"He gets on well with everybody who works here and he is loved by the residents and would do anything to help raise money to give them a better quality of life."

Half of the money raised will go to the residents' fund to provide activities in and outside the home, and also their new sensory garden.

The other half will go to Macmillan Nurses, who work closely with Warrior Park and offers training to the home's staff.