A FOOTBALL club and pub in Newton Aycliffe are preparing to stage a mini-festival as part of their pledge to help a cancer support group.

The Locomotion Number One, at Heighington Station, and Locomotion FC have joined forces to bring what they have dubbed as the town’s first Party in the Car Park.

It is hoped the event will raise thousands of pounds for the Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group (GACSG) which offers invaluable help, financial advice, and social outings for those affected by the disease in the area.

Dan Mellanby, assistant to the Locomotion FC manager, said: “Doing something for people in the area who have cancer is something I feel passionate about and we hope it will be an annual event that will get bigger and better.”

The fundraiser on August 28 will kick off during the day with a car boot sale and family fun including nail painting, face painting and a bouncy castle.

Locomotion FC has footed the bill for three local bands, Metis, Kenzies, and Live Lounge, to perform in the evening while fire-eaters will provide extra entertainment.

There will be a hog roast and other food on offer and a raffle will be drawn.

Keith Johnstone, pub landlord, said: “We want it to be for local people. Everyone knows someone with cancer and we hope the community will pull together.”

All the money raised will go towards GASCG, founded and run by leukaemia sufferer Allison White, of Newton Aycliffe.

The group, which now has 60 members, was recently given a static caravan which is located in Redcar and will be used for free respite breaks.

Cash from the event will go towards the costly running and site fees.

Mr Mellanby, who has known Miss White since they were children, added: “I knew Allison had got a caravan and know the site fees are dear.

“We want to raise enough money so noone has to pay for anything.”

The Party in the Car Park will mark the beginning of a number of events to be held for the charity in the coming year.

Miss White, 39, said: “I feel honoured because it’s nice for local businesses to get on board to help. This is the first time somebody like these have come forward.”

For more information, to donate a raffle prize or book a £10 car boot sale pitch contact Miss White on 07762 258696.