PICTURE: Helping to launch the Great North Air Ambulance It’s a Knockout event are, from left, Lisa Curry and Alistair Irvine, from Wilkinsons, Ben Simpson, of Darlington Mowden Park rugby club, medical student Natalie Teasdale, GNAA mascot Miles, air crew paramedic Stuart Thompson, and Emma Smith, Debbie Welsh and Andy Gray, all from Wilkinsons.

TEAMS of competitors can battle it out at a charity’s third annual It’s a Knockout-style competition.

North-East businesses are invited to put together teams and go head to head in the Great North Air Ambulance Service’s (GNAAS) challenge at The Northern Echo Arena, in Darlington.

A family fun day will also be taking place to raise money for the charity and the GNAAS mascot bear is to make an appearance for the children. There will be face painting, a bouncy castle and refreshments, all for free entry.

Competitors can take part in fancy dress and are likely to get wet as they compete in a fun obstacle course amid water and foam to see who comes top of the league table, and wins the coveted GNAAS cup.

Sarah Zissler, from GNAAS, who organised the event, said: "There will be something for everyone on the day.

“It’s great for team building but also for families who want to enjoy a day out in the local area whilst raising money for a great cause. Everyone gets very competitive but it is sure to be a great laugh.”

Teams of 10 are £500 to enter, which is equivalent to just £50 each which can be raised through individual or team sponsorship. The event will take place on Sunday, July 7, at 12 noon.

Last year’s competition raised more than £7,000, which went to supporting the charity’s three helicopter air ambulances.

Any businesses that would like to participate and put forward a team can call GNAAS on 01325-487263.