THEY'RE in a league of their own and they're under starter's orders to help Children in Need.

Pudsey Bear and four footy mascots are set to run one lap round Blackburn Cathedral in aid of charity on November 15.

And to give the event more of a thrill than a spill, Ladbrokes bookies are ready for people to place their bets on who will come first.

Buzzing into action for Burnley is Bertie the Bee taking on a direct challenge from Blackburn Rovers' Roar and Preston's Deepdale Duck. Blackpool's very own Bloomfield Bear will be also be chasing the bookies' favourite, Children In Need's Pudsey.

And a mystery priest and a vicar, along with several presenters from Radio Lancashire, will be bustling for the best start.

Neil Cartmell is organising the event through the BBC and hopes to pull in the crowds for the spectacular. Money will be raised through collection buckets on the day.

He said: "We are looking forward to a great turn out for a really fun event. We just wanted to bring all the mascots together and attract all the football crowds and members of the public.

"The BBC Children In Need appeal is set to be as big as ever and the more fun people can have the better."

Rovers' Roar said: "Having a bet on Roar is a safe bet. You will certainly not find me lion-ing around."

Odds on Bertie Bee reflect his recent ranking in the Ladbroke Mascot Grand National in Huntington, where he was placed 12th out of more than 90 competitors.

"I am confident of a success in the Cathedral challenge as I am in good shape. I will fly like a butterfly and sting like a bee - especially to get one over on Preston and Blackburn!"

The Deepdale Duck, who was accused of distracting former Rovers goalkeeper Tim Flowers so North End could score a goal in the Worthington Cup four years ago, said: "I will be quackers if I don't win and I am hard in training. I am the best mascot in Lancashire and there will only be one winner. But at the end of the day - it's the charity that counts."

Bets up to £10 will be accepted on the five cuddly runners at Preston, Blackpool, Blackburn, Darwen and Burnley branches of Ladbrokes.

Area manager Michael Charlton, said: "Bets will be taken on the five mascots and any profits that are made will go to charity.

"But it is a real bet. If someone wants to put £10 on the duck, they could win £45 back. We would not want to put any as an outsider but Pudsey has to be favourite with all the support he will get and the Burnley Bee stands a good chance with the form he has recently shown at the grand national!"

Runners will take to the start line at 11.30am.