POLICE officers are swapping their pint glasses for tea cups and going sober for January to raise money for charity.

Officers from Darlington’s North Road beat police team have pledged to stay sober for the month to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

While a national campaign is urging people to stay sober for January in aid of Cancer Research - dubbed a ‘Dryathlon’ - the officers have chosen to support the British Heart Foundation in memory of their colleague, Detective Constable Vince Myhan, who died of a heart attack almost two years ago.

Ten days into their teetotal challenge, PC John Forster said: “We are enjoying the challenge, but Match of the Day won't be the same without a drink.

“It is all for a good cause and will hopefully make us start the new year a bit healthier as well.

"We don't drink a lot, but enjoy the odd few drinks after work. Although I have to say, I am looking forward to February.”

To donate to their challenge, send them a message on Twitter @Darl_NHPT_north or contact them on the non-emergency number, 101.