TEEN telly-addict Alex Gregg really is a sucker for punishment when it comes to watching her favourite television programmes - Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Angel.

TEEN telly-addict Alex Gregg really is a sucker for punishment when it comes to watching her favourite television programmes - Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Angel.

The 19-year-old, of Columbyne Close, Stowupland is planning to coop herself up in a bedroom for two weeks to watch all 233 episodes of the shows – for 16 hours a day.

She is undertaking the challenge with her friend, Sam Stokes, 17, of Maidstone, Kent, who she met through the internet five years ago.

As well as being avid fans of both shows, the pair share a love of rodents – and rats in particular.

With this in mind, they are raising money for Kent-based CavyRescue, an animal sanctuary that cares for rats, guinea pigs, rabbits and various other small rodents.

Although she does not own any rats herself, former Stowupland High School pupil Alex said she would love to in the future.

She said: "I can't have any at the moment because my mum doesn't like them but she thinks it's great that I'm doing this."

The idea for the bizarre fundraising challenge, which is being held in Sam's bedroom, came through a conversation on the internet.

"Sam had been watching an episode of Buffy and I said how great it would be if we could get sponsored to do it, revealed Alex.

"Sam agreed and that's when she said we should do it for CavyRescue. Watching back-to-back Buffy and Angel for two weeks will be a fun way of raising money as well our tribute to the cast and crew of both shows."

Despite the fact the friends have already watched every episode, they are still thirsty for more viewing and are relishing the prospect of watching them again.

"We live, breathe and dream both of these shows so we can't wait, said Alex, who hopes to start a course at Suffolk College in September.

"I've seen every episode but I don't mind watching them again. I could watch them all day."

The girls are allowed eight hours a day for eating, sleeping and freshening up but will be in the bedroom for the remaining time.

The fundraising event starts at 9am on August 11 and will end on August 25.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Sam and Alex can call 07957 610666 or visit their website.

WEBLINK

www.always.fluffyrat.net

FASTfacts Buffy, The Vampire Slayer and Angel

Buffy was first shown in the UK in 1997 and it's spin-off, Angel, in 1999.

Both shows have attracted huge followings worldwide, with fans waiting in suspense for each new season.

However, after dying three times and two romances with vampires, Buffy is no more and the last show has been made, with no more to follow.

Angel is continuing to go from strength to strength and the fourth season ended in June.