THOUSANDS will bid to break the British line dancing record when country and western comes to Burnley in a big way in the summer.

Rockabilly Burnley aims to feature a top band and many local groups in the biggest event of its kind in the North West.

Exhibitions organisers the Image Marketing Group of Bank Parade is one of just a handful of North West companies taking part in the Granada Television Live Challenge, which hopes to raise millions of pounds for children and young people in the region.

In Burnley Image are hoping to use Turf Moor or another major outdoor location for the June Rockability event which, they say, will get live TV coverage.

Their target is to raise £60,000 to £100,000 at the event. Local schools and youth organisations will be invited to help to break the line dancing record and collect sponsorship backing along the way.

Local businesses will be invited to donate raffle prizes.

Image are appealing for helpers, including stage and set builders, lighting technicians, flooring contractors, car park attendants and anyone else "with bundles of enthusiasm".

A spokesman said: "We are all bubbling with excitement about Rockabilly Burnley. Raising money for charity has suffered from overkill in recent years and we feel it is important to make any charity event fun.

"If people are having a good time and getting something in return, they don't mind parting with money," he added.

Rockabilly is a year-long challenge, say Image, who are also organising a major Karaoke Challenge in pubs and clubs throughout the area.

Anyone interested in participating in the cash-raising effort should contact Image's Live Challenge Hotline on 01282 728200.

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