A LEAGUE of footballers are getting shirty to do their bit for charity and help their African counterparts.

The Worcester and District Football League has teamed up with Worcester-based charity Kits4Causes to collect kit and unwanted equipment for a newly formed football league in Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Working alongside Christian sports charity Onside Soccer, who will be driving the project in Africa, they have promised to provide 20 full team kits for the children, teenagers and young adults playing in the new league.

Chris Grindley of Kits4Causes, who also plays for Pillar of Salt Korono FC in the league, said: "We're hoping to get the kits sent over in May so the league can start as soon as possible.

"Hopefully this will coincide with the end of the league season so that we can maximise donations, but with the weather, who knows?"

Mr Grindley added: "The demand for kits far exceeds the supply. We're incredibly grateful for every donation we receive."

Tim Phillips, secretary of the league, said: "We are just happy to support such a worthwhile cause and help establish grass root football in countries where things like playing shirts are not readily available, something we probably take for granted in this country."

The charity has sent out 26,000 shirts, across 30 countries and four continents since its launch in October 2009.

For more information and to make a donation, e-mail Chris Grindley via info@kits4causes.org or go to kits4causes.org.