A PUB is urging people to get behind a childrens' charity after donating more than £50,000 worth of play equipment.

The Tawny Owl, in Neasham Road, Darlington, has teamed up with Stockton charity Daisy Chain, an organisation which provides care facilities for children with special needs.

The charity hopes to raise £300,000 to buy and refurbish a building to provide play and learning facilities for youngsters.

The appeal has been started by the Tawny Owl, which has agreed to donate a Wacky Warehouse, a childrens' play area which belonged to the business before it became a traditional vintage inn.

Landlord Stuart Mann said: "We have no use for the equipment as our business is very different from the one that previously occupied the building.

"I just hope that they can buy the house and get it installed quickly and that people will give them as much help as they can."

Daisy Chain founder Leslie Hanson, who began the charity when her son was diagnosed as autistic, was delighted by the gesture.

She said: "There is a massive need for a charity like ours in the area and we are looking to build awareness."

To organise an event or make a donation to Daisy Chain call 01624 68615.