THE organisers of the first Mixed Ability Rugby World Tournament - which is being held in Bingley - are appealing for help ahead of a fundraising deadline that could jeopardise the event.

International Mixed Ability Sports (IMAS) and the Bingley-based Bumble Bees Barbarians rugby team need to raise £50,000 to provide accommodation for the 400 players that will compete in the city in August.

The total stands at £43,431 - with Monday's deadline fast-approaching. The accommodation will be at the University of Bradford.

Josh Hall, a facilitator and secretary with Bumble Bees, said: "If we don't get £50,000 by the deadline we don't get anything - the money will not be taken from anyone who pledged.

"It is kind of make-or-break. It could potentially put the tournament in jeopardy if we don't raise the money. We need to reach the £50,000."

He added: "It has been full-on for the last few weeks. Anyone who can pledge over the coming days, it would be a massive help."

The tournament will take place between August 17 and 21 this year. More than 400 mixed ability players from ten different countries, including from Argentina, will converge on Bradford to take part in the first full-contact, 15-a-side rugby event of its kind.

A spokesman said: "IMAS is a body that aims to facilitate those with mental and physical conditions to get involved in sport and promote social inclusion by mixing 'able-bodied' volunteers, coaches or tutors who act as helpers or guides on the pitch.

"The Bumble Bees Barbarians are the England's first mixed ability rugby side, based in Bingley and originally borne out of one young man's struggle to play rugby despite suffering from cerebral palsy. They have been training and playing regular fixtures since 2009."

Former Bradford South MP, who served as Sports Minister, Gerry Sutcliffe, said: "Raising awareness of disabilities and promoting well-being through sport is something that I have always believed in and I hope will attract support from all sections of society."

If you want to make a pledge to help towards the £50,000 target, visit crowdfunder.co.uk/1st-mixed-ability-rugby-world-tournament.