EMPLOYEES at Poole-based business Eureka are in training to pull a Boing 737 in aid of Julia's House Children's Hospice.

The first aid, hygiene and safety firm is a long-standing supporter of the Poole hospice.

Twenty staff have pledged to take part in the plane pull, which is scheduled for Bournemouth Airport on August 26.

Up to 40 teams will compete to pull the 35-tonne airliner a distance of 50 metres in the fastest time.

Eureka sales manager Ricky Williams, who hopes the team will raise £1,000 for Julia's House, said: "Our staff are really looking forward to taking part in this event. We are not sure how we will get on, but as long as we can all pull together and raise a fair amount money for such an amazing charity, that’s all that matters.

"Anyone who would like to support us on our journey can make a donation directly to Julia’s House at www.juliashouse.org.”

Since the first annual plane pull took place in 2009, the event has raised over £130,000 for 24 different charities.

Julia’s House corporate fundraiser Caroline Attreed said: “Julia’s House has been involved with Dorset Plane Pull for the past 10 years. The event is always good fun with teams often taking part in fancy dress and raising huge amounts of money for a range of local and national charities.

"We are really pleased that Eureka! have chosen to take part and support Julia’s House.

"We will be cheering them on throughout the day and wish them the best of luck in the competition.”