The Chairman of Darlington Football Club, George Houghton, has secured ownership of the popular North East children's cartoon series called the Lampies. The first Lampies DVD 'SWITCH ON TO THE LAMPIES' is launched this week and to celebrate the Lampies character called 'Charge' will be coming to the match.

The Lampies was a favourite on Children's BBC from 2000 to 2003 and now they are back. Its award winning theme tune and great story lines are just two of the reasons for its huge popularity.

George said: "The Lampies is a fantastic children's programme and if my grandchildren are anything to go by I am sure that it will capture a new generation of young fans."

As well as his determination to bring the Lampies back into the public eye, George is also keen to use the launch to raise money for the Save the Children charity.

George hopes the Lampies can spotlight the work of the charity's in areas such as healthcare, food, education and protection:

"For every 'SWITCH ON TO THE LAMPIES' DVD we sell £2 of the cost will go towards Save the Children's protection work with very vulnerable children in Mongolia. This is a significant commitment and we hope that parents will join us in supporting these children who have none of the protection that shields our children in the UK."