BANGKOK and Barnard Castle don't have much in common, but a bit of Thailand could come to Teesdale if a plan to introduce Rickshaws to the market town goes ahead.

Teesdale Community Resources (TCR) want to pilot a scheme that would see the three wheeled bikes used to ferry visitors around the County Durham town.

It is hoped they would give some young people employment and could also be used to deliver shopping and prescriptions to elderly or disabled residents.

If TCR can access funds, it would buy three electrically assisted Rickshaws, which would be used to help people get to out of town attractions such as The Bowes Museum and Egglestone Abbey.

Keith Jones, chief executive of TCR, said: "I discussed the idea with some of the people who use TCR that are interested in bikes and they supported it.

"It's all about developing young people's business skills and giving them the opportunity to be part of something new.

"They are always really interested in trying something different and having the chance to earn some money."

"It will also raise the profile of environmental matters for the young people."

The pilot scheme would initially cost about 16,500 with 6,000 for each additional unit.

There will also be the chance for local businesses to advertise on the side of the bikes, which will seat three passengers.

Potentially one of the biggest obstacles to TCR's plan is a physical one. The bikes must be able to safely get up and down The Bank, a steep hill going from the town's Market Cross to the River Tees.

But Mr Jones said that the Rickshaws would be more than capable of tackling the hill, which features some of the town's oldest buildings.

"They've got good brakes and on the way up they've got the electric motor that would help the driver out, you wouldn't be able to get up without the motor. These things were first trailed in Bath, which is a very hilly place."

The Rickshaw drivers would all be over 17 and be specially selected and trained to use the bikes.

TCR has drawn up a business plan and is now looking for funding for the project. Any local businesses who would be interested in contributing to the pilot scheme should call Mr Jones on 01833-690150.