CHARITY fundraisers say that the prizes donated to their raffle should be just the ticket.

But so far, sales for next month's draw in aid of Action on Pre-eclampsia have not taken off.

Sheila and Joe Thornton, of New Brancepeth, are holding the raffle because their niece Lisa Martin, 21, of Ushaw Moor, was suffering from the potentially fatal condition when she was pregnant.

She underwent an emergency Caesarean section that saved her and baby Joshua, who weighed 2lbs 2ozs and needed heart surgery.

The couple hope to raise £3,000 for the charity with the raffle, including a balloon ride over Newcastle and a year's membership of Meadowfield Leisure Centre, donated by Durham City Council.

"We have got some wonderful prizes - people have been fantastic - but so far we have not sold many tickets," said Mrs Thornton.

The prizes include food hampers, a T-shirt autographed by pop group A1 and two £25 taxi ride vouchers.

"After the draw we will be having an afternoon of karaoke at the Langley Moor Hotel. We hope to give a big boost to the charity," said Mrs Thornton.

For further details contact 0191-373 0293.