A YORK charity aiming to take disabled children away on holiday to France was today backed by the caring owners of a new caf.

As previously reported in the Evening Press, Theresa Etheridge, of Clifton, is trying to raise £5,000 to take five disabled children to Lourdes, where they would take part in a wide range of activities.

Theresa runs the York branch of the Children's Pilgrimage Trust (CPT).

Steven Atkin and Andy Abbott, who recently opened the Eastside Caf and Takeaway, in Tang Hall, read about Theresa's appeal in the Evening Press and decided they wanted to help.

So for seven days from Saturday, five pence from every cup of tea or coffee sold at the caf will be donated to the CPT.

Andy said: "We are happy to help out. It is a good local cause. Hopefully this should raise a few quid, we are constantly selling cups of tea and coffee, no-one ever goes dry here."

Theresa said: "I think what they are doing is brilliant, I can't thank them enough. We have been really struggling so every penny that we get is really gratefully received and will make a difference."

Anyone who would like to make a donation should ring Theresa on 07702 735344, or call in at the caf, 149 Tang Hall Lane.

Updated: 08:31 Friday, September 27, 2002