SIX CLEANERS who found they couldn't fit into their new work uniforms have vowed to shed the pounds and raise cash for charity.

The women, from Gateshead Council's cleaning and catering service, ordered the outfits earlier this year, but collectively put on four stones before the uniforms were delivered. Rather than send them back, they have started a sponsored slim.

One of the group, Doris Bowles, said: "The whole of the building cleaning division, a total of 700 staff, which includes cleaners and supervisors, were issued with new uniforms and we were the only ones who couldn't fit into ours.

"So we decided to do something about it and lose weight to benefit the Mayor of Gateshead's charity."

The group hopes to raise more than £1,000 for the Mayor's approved charities this year, which are the Live at Home Scheme for older people and the Jigsaw Appeal at St Oswald's Hospice.

They have made a good start, shedding 27lbs between them in a week and hope to lose more than seven stones by December 20.

Anyone wanting to sponsor them should call Judith Stokoe, on 0191-433 5525.