PUBS in Bishop Auckland are pulling out all the stops to give a three-year-old autistic boy the chance of a normal life.

Fundraising begins in earnest next week, backed by licensees and staff in the Market Place, where Conor Hardy's father, Geoff, works as a doorman.

Geoff and his wife, Allison, from Esh Winning, want to take Conor for treatment at the Growing Minds Institute in Miami, Florida, where intensive therapy would cost £10,000 for just five days.

Their friend Chris Ball, who runs the Outback, in Bondgate, has opened a bank account for contributions to the Chance for Conor appeal.

He has arranged a Ladies Night at the pub next Thursday. On March 22, there is a 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s night at the Outback.

To support the appeal contact (0777) 3275730