PARENTS of youngsters at a Trimdon martial arts class are hoping to generate funds with the aid of chocolate eggs, whisky and footballers' autographs.

Chun ji tae kwon do club, which is held at Trimdon Community Centre, will hold a raffle next month to raise money to buy safety mats and equipment.

Secretary for the club, Christine Coomber, said: "Tae kwon-do teaches self esteem, motivation in balance techniques, etiquette, and most of all how to do this safely."

Her 15-year-old son Ben, who suffers from developmental dyspraxia, has been attending classes for two years.

Mrs Coomber said: "Ben's balance and co-ordination have improved since taking up tae kwon-do and he is more confident and motivated."

So far, parents' efforts to raise money for the group have included a sponsored swimming session, car boot sales and a lottery.

Now they are hoping that the Easter raffle will provide extra funds to enable them to buy safety equipment.

They are looking for raffle prizes to be donated and have already received Easter eggs, a House of Commons bottle of whisky and a signed Sunderland football programme.

Anyone who can donate a prize should contact Mrs Coomber on (01429) 882497.