Helen Dawson and Drew McMillan, who teach at Dyke House School, in Hartlepool, need at least £2,000 each to embark on their expedition to Ghana.

They came up with a host of fundraising ideas to help l – including a men's burlesque show and stiletto race – but so far their efforts haven't raked in as much as they were aiming for.

Now they are asking Hartlepool's business community to get behind them by giving £1 per company.

English teacher Helen, 25, said: "For just £1 they could help make our dream possible and help make a difference to children in Africa.

The pair plan to swap their classroom to teach in Ghana's Volta region during their summer holidays.

Helen and maths teacher Drew, 23, will spend four weeks teaching conversational English to youngsters after signing up with volunteer organisation Cross Cultural Solutions.

The money they have raised so far has let them put down their deposits for the trip and further events will be held over Easter.

Drew and friends will saddle up for a 130-mile coast to coast bike ride between April 4-6.

An African-themed evening of merriment is also planned at the Rovers Quoit Club, in Grainger Street, Hartlepool, on Friday, April 17.

To donate your £1 or to take part in any of the events, contact Helen on 07977 600182.