A FOOTBALL club is expanding into new territory - children's books. Sunderland's educational charity division, the Sunderland AFC Foundation, has teamed up with North-East medical charity The Children's Foundation to offer a footballing novel over the Internet.

Patrick's Hat Trick is the first in a series produced by Donation Press to raise money for the two causes.

It is the story of footballing youngster Patrick Winlittle, who never gives up.

The book's creator, Donation Press managing director Dan Monteith, decided to fulfil his dream of being a children's writer by starting a publishing company.

He was inspired to write the story by his five-year-old son, Patrick.

Mr Monteith said: "Not only am I now able to publish my own work, but I am able to offer a real chance to many other talented, but unknown, writers and illustrators in the region, who would struggle to break into the predominantly London-based market."

Mr Monteith's idea developed after he met representatives of The Children's Foundation.

Its chief executive, Barbara Gubbins, said: "We were delighted to be approached by Dan regarding this exciting initiative, which promises to be the start of a long relationship.

"It is a great story, beautifully illustrated, and will help to raise funds for The Children's Foundation."

Patrick's Hat Trick is £5.59, available from www.donationpress.com