HOPES of an Eastleigh group of baton twirlers jetting across the Atlantic for a stars and stripes engagement could be grounded.

The Spencerette Baton Twirlers fear they do not have enough time to raise cash to accept the American invitation from the world-famous Twirl Mania.

The prestigious contest is in February at Disney's Wide World of Sports in Florida.

The group's last hope is that the business community will step in and make the girls' American dream trip come true.

Director Gill Babb said the invitation was a huge honour and added: "We would dearly love to take the girls, especially as they would gain so much from being with other athletes and the prestige of having attended such a world class event.

"This invitation was only received last week and we do not have the time to raise sufficient funds to allow us to attend."

To take eight to ten girls would land the Spencerettes with a bill in the region of £7,500.

This would include their flights, accommodation and admission charges.

Gill said: "Had we been given more time we would have made every effort to raise this money for ourselves."

They were looking for sponsorship or donations from businesses. "Any business that supports our effort will be advertised on a specially-printed garment that the girls would wear at Twirl Mania but also at displays throughout the country," said Gill

They would also be prepared, depending on the location, to give a display and promote the company at any of its open days.

Founded in 1969, the Eastleigh baton twirling outfit is one of the longest established corps in the country, drawing its members from a wide area.

They were runners-up in this year's International Baton Twirling Ass-ociation's summer championships,

Gill added: "We are open to all children no matter what their circumstances and rely very much on our fundraising activities."

If you would like to sponsor the twirlersfor their American trip, call Gill on 0776 9587 832.