More than a dozen African football fanatics have been given kit to play in, thanks to a local sponsor.

Richard and Laraine Peacock, who run Cowling's Black Bull pub, have donated shirts, shorts and socks to the Lamin Village football team in the Gambia, West Africa.

Mr and Mrs Peacock heard of the Gambians' plight after Ian and Gill Hodgson, who regularly drink in the pub, told them about their visits to the Gambian village and how they had befriended one of the football players. The player told Mr and Mrs Hodgson about their passion for football, but how almost impossible it was to play because they could not afford the most basic essentials, such as a ball and proper kit.

Mr Peacock, himself a keen footballer and former referee, had been collecting football gear over the years. He and his wife were only too glad the kit could be put to good use.

Mr Peacock says: "I've played football for many years and thought it would be nice for somebody else to benefit from what we take for granted here."

Three weeks ago, a second sponsor came forward - Skipton firm James Butterfield, Machinery Removal and Transport. Mr Butterfield had exclusive shirts, shorts and socks made with the Butterfield logo on and has had the kits sent out with a couple who recently visited the village.

Mr and Mrs Peacock plan to visit Lamin Village next year.

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