TAKE a larger-than-life caterpillar, a promotion-pushing football team and a charity in desperate need of some extra cash and what have you got?

Say hello to Colin the Caterpillar, the latest must-have fashion accessory for Preston North End fans everywhere!

A pin badge of the caterpillar, dressed in PNE's home shirt, will officially be launched at Friday's PNE game against Notts County.

It is hoped that Colin will help raise funds for St Catherine's Hospice, which needs £3 a minute just to keep going.

The unique badge was created after PNE chairman Brian Gray, whose firm is close to St Catherine's Hospice in Lostock Hall, suggested the club and charity work together.

Appeals manager John Nickson, of St Catherine's, said: "We have worked with Preston North End before on match days to collect money and we are delighted to have been able to come up with a plan like this."

The pin badge sells at £1.50 and is available on match days and in North End's club shops, local garages and leisure centres.

John added: "We wanted to create something which was obviously linked with North End, but was also related to us.

"It was obvious that the butterfly in our logo couldn't wear a PNE shirt, but there is nothing stopping us using a caterpillar, which is the fore-runner of a butterfly.

"We hope it will really take off!"

If you want to sell some of the badges, ring the Hospice on (01772) 629171.

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