A FOOTBALL team is hoping to raise money for a children's charity with a 24-hour rowing machine relay.

Fighting Cocks Football Club, from Middleton St George, near Darlington, are holding the event in aid of the TFM/ Magic Radio Make a Child Smile campaign.

The Sunday league team will row for 24 hours over this week's bank holiday weekend, at the Fighting Cocks pub.

Team mascot Cocky Bear is also hoping to take part in the event.

A rowing machine has been provided by David Lloyd Racquet and Fitness Club, at Teesside Park, Stockton.

Energy supplier npower has promised to match all the money raised, up to a total of £1,000.

Npower has also donated a signed Middlesbrough Football Club shirt to be raffled.

The relay starts on Sunday, at 6pm. Anyone wishing to make donations is asked to contact Paul Teasdale c/o The Fighting Cocks. Cheques are to be made payable to Make a Child Smile.