THE Great Wall of China should prove no obstacle for one North-East couple.

For centuries the famous wall has repelled countless attacks by raiding armies, but that has not deterred Michelle Parkes and Steven Tullip in their bid to conquer it.

For the Darlington couple will be taking part in an arduous five-day trek along the wall to raise funds for disabled people.

Ms Parkes, who is sponsorship manager for Darlington Borough Council, and her builder boyfriend Mr Tullip, are in training for the walk.

They have to raise £2,000 each to take part in the trek, and so far, they have received support from consultancy and graphic design company Calvis, run by businessman Chris Lees.

But the couple are eager to raise as much as possible. Ms Parkes, 32, said: "We want to raise as much as we can before the trek in September, so the more support we get, the better.

"It will be a real challenge and neither of us are experienced walkers, but it's for a good cause and we can't wait."

Support has also come from Darlington nightclub Mardi Gras, which will be waiving the entrance fee for clubbers arriving before 11pm, on August 10 and 17, provided they make a donation.