By Tony Leighton

Doncaster Rovers have come to the rescue of their sister team with a fundraising game that may save the Belles from going out of business.

The Belles have been living on borrowed time and money since losing their major sponsor at the end of last season.

Closure had looked likely but it is now hoped that the Festival of Football on 12 October will keep the Belles going for the foreseeable future.

On that day Rovers' current side will play a team of legends at the Keepmoat.

Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll said: "As a club the Rovers have seen lean times and we recognise we are in a position to help the Belles.

"We have an international break that weekend so we've decided to play this one-off game, with all proceeds going to the Belles."

606: DEBATE How important is this news for the future of Doncaster Belles?

"Money in the ladies' game is hard to come by and we've lost some sponsors recently, leaving us in a very precarious position financially."

Without sponsors the Belles - the oldest club in the Women's Premier League - have very little income, needing about �5,000 a month to keep the club in operation.

James stated: "We are hoping the Rovers fundraiser will help us to keep going at least until the new year, when we celebrate our 40th birthday."

The Belles will play their Women's Premier League fixture against Birmingham City in the Keepmoat Stadium immediately after the match between Rovers and the Legends.

Rovers chairman John Ryan said: "It's not only a chance for us to help the Belles, this is also an amazing opportunity for Rovers fans to see some of our true heroes."