Pub regulars are launching a fund-raising appeal to provide protection from the elements for Albion supporters with disabilities.

Customers at the Duke of Wellington in Upper Gloucester Road, Brighton, are aiming to raise £2,500 to pay for a shelter at Withdean Stadium.

At presents fans who use wheelchairs have to sit along the touchline and are unprotected from the weather.

Pub landlord Martin Donovan said: "We got the idea after holding a raffle at the end of last season for all the supporters who visit the pub on matchdays.

"We wanted to say thank you to them for all their support and some of them suggested we donate the money to providing wheelchair facilities at the club."

The pub approached the club which gave the proposal its strong support.

Mr Donovan formed a committee and plans are now in place to hold a series of fund-raising events over the coming season.

It is hoped the new shelter will be in place by May next year.

Among the events being suggested are a sponsored pool marathon, a sing-along evening and a charity quiz. The pub also plans to give to the appeal any profits it makes from selling Albion scratchcards.

Mr Donovan added: "If we raise enough money we may be able to get more than one shelter. They are not permanent features so they can be taken away by the club whenever they move.

"The club has not got the money to do something like this itself and has been very supportive."

Albion finance director Bob Pinnock welcomed the efforts of the pub and its regulars.

He said: "We are delighted with this initiative and will always support anything which helps our disabled supporters.

"Withdean was not purpose-built for the disabled and we are aware of the difficulties they face.

"There are a few pubs in the town which support the Albion and it's wonderful that the Duke of Wellington is doing this."

Anyone who would like to help the appeal can contact the pub on 01273 327989.