A FIRM of solicitors had to perform a daring prison break to raise money charity.

Employees from Farnsworth Rose were sentenced to remain at Director Richard Farnworth's pleasure until they had raised money for Pendleside Hospice.

So the five inmates - Danny Groves, Shaun Starr, Vikki Hickey, Jen Hodges and Liam Eddleston - had to use all the tools at their disposal to get donations to secure their release.

So with their freedom on the line, the convicts began hitting the phones, searching the internet and in some cases even shouting people from the office window in an attempt to receive as many donations as possible.

Their efforts were soon rewarded, as the £300 target was smashed just an hour after they had started.

But a new judgement was handed down and it was subsequently decided that the inmate’s sentence should be extended and a new £500 aim was set.

After two additional hours of frantic calling and messaging, all five prisoners were granted freedom by 8pm as the £500 target was surpassed.

Richard Farnworth, the director at Farnworth Rose said: “I can indeed confirm that five Farnworth Rose inmates were released from the offices on Friday evening.

“Joking aside, it was a phenomenal effort from all those involved in the prison break fundraiser to help raise £862 for the Pendleside Hospice.

“To have nearly 100 supporters in such a short space of time is fantastic and we are so grateful.”