A TEAM of Prince's Trust volunteers devised a wizard wheeze to help an Atherton school for the disabled.

The magnificent seven conceived an Harry Potter adventure to row, run and cycle to the tallest tower in France in a bid to release DVDs captured and turned into gargoyles by the evil magician Small Annuals.

Their aim, as the good Prince's aids, was to recapture essential computer equipment and books for the library at Two Porches.

But the whole makebelieve journey has been completed on the spot at Howe Bridge Leisure Centre.

The squad, Atherton Team 1, based in the town for the first time, and made up of Gareth Bond, Andrew Gregory, Laura McKevitt, Jason Grime, Chris Banerjee, Ben Barker and leader Wendy Robertson have been taking part in their final team challenge of the Prince's Trust Volunteer Programme.

The Bag Lane Enterprise Centre-based team have been working together for 12 weeks on the personal development programme, and along with Wendy, conceived and carried out the fantasy trip.

The mission was replicated at Howe Bridge with team members rowing 30 miles, running 52 miles, cycling 220 miles and climbing the 1652 steps of the Eiffel Tower, in relay form.

Less strenuous money-raising deeds included a supermarket bag pack and a raffle.

Now they are hoping Journal readers might help their quest by donating to the appeal. They can do so by contacting 01942 871684.

The group complete their scheme on January 16 with a final team presentation at the Atherton Arms where they will show what they have achieved through the personal development course.

The scheme is backed by Wigan and Chorley Groundwork Trust, the Learning Skills Council, North West development Agency and Wigan Council.

Wendy is now looking for a new group of unemployed 16-25 year olds to take up the challenge, which gives them certificates in first aid, health and safety and key skills.

The scheme also includes a community project, work placements and a variety of other ventures aimed at personal development.

The next begins on February 25 and anyone interested in applying should contact 01942 821444 for more information.