HEALING hands will be invigorating an appeal when a masseur attempts a day-long marathon for charity.

Andy Cox is lining up 18 people for sponsored hour-long massages over 24 hours in aid of terminally-ill children.

He hopes to raise at least £500 from the stunt, to be held where he works at the Unique Fitness gym in Mill Street, Kidderminster, for Acorns Children's Hospice Trust.

The trust is appealing for £4 million to build a hospice in Worcester by 2004, offering support and specialist facilities for about 150 youngsters from Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.

"Having a child really brings it home to you how important children are," said Mr Cox, 35, of Fold Farm, Chaddesley Corbett.

"I was looking around for a local charity to support when I heard about this appeal. If this helps it would be great."

Mr Cox, who completed his diploma in personal training and sports massage therapy earlier this year, reckons he will be able to stay awake between 7pm on Friday, August 30 and the same time on Saturday - but says it will take its toll.

"I will drink lots of protein drinks and lots of water and have about a 20-minute gap between each massage. But you've got to watch your own posture because you can put your back out doing it."

Anyone interested in taking part can contact Mr Cox on 07970 275901.