A basketball team is looking for thousands of pounds to help make their championship dreams come true.

The South Coast Dreams have already won the Sussex League Cup and are hoping businesses in the Eastbourne area will come up with the £10,000 they need to participate at national level.

The money would go towards paying for team kits, balls, venues, referees and travel.

The team is trained by Marcellin Matene-Mbika, who also coaches players at Park College, King's Drive, Eastbourne.

Mr Matene-Mbika, who is also chairman and secretary, said: "We started training a year ago and easily won the Sussex League Cup in our first season so going to national level is a natural step.

"But we desperately need sponsorship to do it and we have got less than three months to raise the money.

"We are looking for any business or individual to help, even by donating a small amount. We have already raised £1,000 and have applied to the council for help, as well as the National Lottery fund.

"The team is committed to their sport and this is good for the youth of Eastbourne. It gives them somewhere to play basketball and improve their skills. It would be a shame to waste all this talent."

A basketball tournament will be held to raise more money.

Park College principal Phil Frier said: "I hope local businesses will be able to support the team in their quest to go on to bigger and better things.

"Marcellin trains the Park College team and several of those players are in South Coast Dreams as well.

"It would be great to see them doing well at national level."

Although the team is made up of men, Mr Matene-Mbika is hoping to get a female team together for next season.

For further details, or to help with fund-raising, please contact Marcellin on 07765 828109 or drop into his shop, Marcy's Crib, at 2 Mark Lane.