WARM-HEARTED rugby players are planning a big day of matches to raise money to send disabled children on holiday.

The men, who play for the town team at Barnard Castle, are showing their more caring side by arranging the fixtures on their pitch on Sunday, February 8.

John McGrath, a second row lock who is helping to organise the event, said yesterday: "We aim to pull in as much cash as we can. The more we raise the more breaks we can provide for some unfortunate boys and girls."

All the takings will be given to Totties, an organisation that provides holidays for disabled children.

Mr McGrath has been promised the support of his employers, Axa Insurance, in Darlington, and a number of other players are hoping to find ways of raising money.

Players from Darlington and Alnwick will take part in the matches, and those from Barnard Castle. There will also be tag games for younger players.

Mr McGrath said: "We will have a lot of good rugby that day, with matches involving juniors, current players and veterans. They will all enjoy taking part for such a good cause."

The players will give the takings to Teesdale Opportunities for Disabled Youngsters.

The organisation has 25 local disabled boys and girls on its books.

Mrs Kerry Patterson, a trustee of the organisation, said yesterday: "It is brilliant of the rugby teams to do this for us.

"I hope they make a lot of money as it will help to give some of our young folk a treat that will give them a great deal of pleasure."