A CHANCE to make history is being at the world's first gravy wrestling championships - but organisers are desperate for a stock of volunteers.

Despite international media attention no teams have yet come forward to take part in the Pennine Lancashire Festival of Food and Culture's most eye-catching event.

The Bangkok Times in Thailand and newspapers across the world have been telling their millions of readers about the championships.

Two television programmes are also interested in filming and the gravy showdown has been featured on the Visit Britain website as one of the summer's British highlights.

But festival organisers said potential wrestling talents were failing to come forward.

Festival executive director Jackie Livesey said: "We've sent out forms and I have had a lot of interest and I don't know if people are waiting for the weather but I'm hoping we'll get a big response. It's a fun thing and it's for a good cause. Maybe wrestling is putting people off but it's not violent, it's about entertainment and fun and 50 per cent of the marks are given based on entertainment value."

All funds raised by the teams of three will go to the East Lancashire Hospice in Blackburn.

The Pennine Lancashire Festival of Food and Culture hits Darwen from September 7 to 9.

At high noon in Sainsbury's car park in Hardman Way on Saturday teams will grapple for the title and trophy. Organisers hope the event will top last year's custard pie extravaganza.

"Everyone is invited to take part," said festival chairman Neil Bullows. "Whether you fancy yourself as a future wrestling champion or just want an excuse to splash around in gravy."

To book your place or to get further information telephone 01254 585620 or 07736 029252. Teams can also turn up on the day but are not guaranteed a space. A donation to the hospice is asked for and how much can be discussed on the telephone.

Admittance to watch is free.

For more information about the festival, visit the website below.