Darlington star Mark Bower has launched a charity Readathon to raise money for Help the Heroes.

The Quakers defender did a reading at Risedale Community College in Catterick this week to encourage children to read as part of the Read for Heroes effort.

The youngsters have been challenged to read as many books as they can within a fortnight.

And Darlington will be dishing out a free match ticket for the club's game against Barnet at the Northern Echo Arena for every child who raises £10 or more.

"It's very important for children to enjoy reading," said 30-year-old Bower. "This programme not only encourages children to read but also raising money for an excellent cause so it's a great idea and I'm sure there'll be lots of children who'd like to take part."

The Reading for Heroes initiative is running from this week through to Friday March 19. Pupils interested in taking part can collect a sponsor form from their school.