ONE of the greatest Olympians the world has seen is coming to the North-East.

Rower Sir Steven Redgrave, the only man to win gold at five successive Olympics for endurance sports, will raise money for one of the region's charities.

He will attend the Tees Rowing Challenge, in Stockton, next month on behalf of the Daisy Chain charity, which aims to create the UK's first respite centre for autistic children.

The centre, which would cost £1.5m and be built at Calf Fallow Lane, Norton, near Stockton, was the dream of the late Lesley Hanson, whose son has autism.

Lesley's husband, Duane, vowed to make his wife's vision come true after she died recently.

Sir Steven will also raise money for his Redgrave Charitable Trust at the event at the Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre, between Thursday and Sunday, May 20 to 23.

Youngsters from primary and secondary schools will take part in the event, which will involve them building rafts and then racing each other. There will also be a number of fun events, including fancy dress.

Bob Bond, manager of the Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre, said: "This is a great opportunity for Stockton to showcase the wonderful watersports opportunities we have on the river.

"It also allows adults and youngsters to take part in events which will enhance their watersport skills. It will be great fun and raise money for two very worthwhile charities."