A CHARITY worker who appealed for unusual items to sell has been given her first challenge - a folding caravan.

Marion Cowper, manager of Oxfam in Darlington, issued a challenge last month for people to provide her with weird and wonderful goods to sell.

Pensioner Ron Swinden responded by offering his 13ft, two-berth caravan.

The vehicle had not been used for some time so Mrs Cowper's husband, Bob, has restored it.

It will go up for auction today and can be viewed outside the Hope Inn, in Yarm Road, Darlington.

Mrs Cowper said: "It has an internal radio, fridge, cooker and sink unit and a utility room, all of which magically fold down to fit when it is in its trailer form."

Mr Swinden, 74, said he bought the caravan in 1985 but stopped using it after a hip replacement operation.

Anyone interested in making a bid is asked to call Mrs Cowper on (01325) 483967 before Monday. The proceeds will go to Oxfam.