LORRY drivers had their chance to get their own back on a haulage company's transport officials, at least on the football field.

But Hargreaves Transport Services' office staff overcame the challenge of the company's drivers.

Difficult conditions did not deter the transport office team from the Esh Winning hauliers, who triumphed 4-2, in driving rain on playing fields alongside Meadowfield Sports Centre, near Durham.

But the real winner of what will now become an annual challenge fixture, was the Marie Curie Cancer Care charity, which should benefit by more than £1,000.

Transport manager Brian Barnes was the brains behind the event, which brought many of the company's 300-strong workforce together.

"We get to shout at the drivers for 12 months a year and this was a chance for them to have a go back, at least for 90 minutes.

"It was good fun and we managed to win, although I've got a few bruises. We all went off and replaced some lost liquid afterwards, so it was a good day, despite the soaking we all got."

Carol Oliver, area fundraising manager for Marie Curie Cancer Care, said: "In my area alone we have 70 nurses who go out and offer care to cancer sufferers, and we are extremely grateful to receive a helping hand from events like this, which help us to maintain that service."