WEARING odd socks is something you try not to do in the morning when you dress in the dark.

But one support group in Cumbria is encouraging people to do just that.

The Cumbria Down's Syndrome Support Group wants people to mis-match their socks on March 21 in a bid to break a World Record.

Cristina Bowman, secretary of Cumbria DSSG, said: "We are asking the community to come together in the hope we can get more people wearing Odd Socks in one place than the current World Record."

The event will start at 12pm in the sports hall at Carlisle College. There will be stalls from Mencap and others.

Mrs Bowman said: "Cumbria Woman of the Year will be joining us wearing odd socks on the day. The event lands on the same day as Carlisle College holds its Equality and Diversity event, with work from students on display for the community to view."

Members of the group will also be returning to the Immortal Art Studio on Castle Street for a tattoo.

Last year, members of Cumbria DSSG braved the pain to get the three chevron Lucky Few tattoos as a symbol of their love.

The tattoo, which started in America, represents the three sets of chromosomes that people with Down’s Syndrome have and the arrows also symbolise rising up and moving forward.

Cristina, who was inked with the tattoo last year, said my 18-year-old son is getting his first tattoo to show his love for his two-year-old brother."

Cristina's daughter, Abbie Leigh, had the tattoo done last year.

Children with Down’s Syndrome, also called trisomy 21, are born with three copies of the 21 chromosome.

And Cristina said: "If you look at the chromosome Karyotype in an image, it looks like odd socks."

Schools will also be taking part with pupils sporting odd socks and some will be baking sock shaped biscuits.

Meanwhile, this week the group is preparing for an outing.

Cristina said: "We are having our first walk for people with disabilities and their friends on Wednesday (FEB 20) at 11am.

"We will meet at Maryport Aquarium and set out for a half hour walk."