FOUR North-East teenagers hope to net a world title later this year when they compete in an international roller hockey championships.

The region should be well represented at the international contest in New York in July, after County Durham teenagers Beverley Hutchinson, 15, from Spennymoor, Emma Gourley, 19, from Newton Aycliffe and Leanne Clarke, 14, from Durham, were picked to join the national team, alongside Newcastle's Sarah Clare, 16.

But Beverley may have to miss out on the contest unless she can attract sponsorship.

As things stand, the teenager will have to choose between taking part in the world championships or the North American Roller Hockey Championships (Narch), in Minnesota, because she does not have enough funding for both. The Narch contest is the biggest international contest, attracting 300 teams from around the world.

Her father, Alan Hutchinson, said roller hockey is not yet a recognised Olympic sport, but the Minnesota contest is widely recognised as being of the same standard.

He said: "We desperately need sponsorship for all the girls, but especially Beverley. All the players need to raise £1,000 to go to New York and it will cost £3,500 to send Beverley to the Narch contest."

To help fund any of the players ring Mr Hutchinson on 0777 5938411.