A CHARITY flag dancing troupe is appealing for sponsors to help its 25th birthday celebrations go with a bang.

The Avengers group and cadets, based at St David's Church Hall, Eldon Street, Penwortham, plan to mark the special occasion with a reunion of former members.

Colourguard group members, aged seven-12 and 13-25 years old, are also aiming to raise enough cash to buy matching team outfits intime for the anniversary in September.

As the only group of its kind in the North West, director Andy Gutteridge, 33, said it would be a fitting reward for them.

"They all work really hard and deserve a new kit," he said.

"A lot of the troupes have fleecy jackets. I know this is something that our groups would defintely like."

The Avengers evolved from the First Preston Boys' Brigade marching band which started in the late 60s.

Mr Gutteridge, a director along with brother, Mark, explained that the American influenced sport was a cross between gymnastics, dancing and cheerleading. Both troupes, who finished in the top ten of the national final in Brentwood, Essex, on March 27, have raised more than £1,000 doing sponsored sleepovers and chest waxes.

The registered charity has also applied for a travel subsidy and accommodation grant from the council.

But Mr Gutteridge, who used to be an Avenger, said: "Running costs and getting the troupes to different competitions swallow up a lot of the money.

"We need a sponsor willing to support us in this up-and-coming sport."

Sian Pugh, ten, of Kingshaven Drive, Penwortham, is one of the cadets who took part in the final. "Flag dancing is getting really popular now," said the Broad Oak Primary School pupil.

"It's lots of fun and I'd be really excited if I knew someone was going to get us a new kit.

"It'd be great if we had one for our competitions. I think it's brilliant that they're trying their best to get us one."

Interested in sponsoring The Avengers? Call Andy on 01772 517543.