A mother-of-twins helped to launch an 'e-mail to Santa' fundraising scheme for a hospital baby unit.

Thomas and Rebecca Fawcett weighed just 2lb and 4.5lb when they arrived at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, where they remain today.

However, mum Tracy has her fingers crossed they will be home in time for Christmas and sent a line to Santa from the Learn-direct office in Northallerton's High Street, enlisting his help.

"I couldn't think of anything I wanted more," she said.

The e-mail service costs 50p with proceeds going towards the Special Care Baby Unit at the Friarage Hospital, which is the chosen charity of Northallerton mayor, Tony Hall.

"A reply will reach each sender's home computer within 48 hours," said Learndirect's Val Brown.

There are prizes for the most original e-mail: a ride on the Wensleydale Railway for under- 19s and a hamper containing Christmas food for the best e-mail by an adult.