ENGLAND and Durham cricketer Steve Harmison has thrown his weight behind a campaign to get more people through the turnstiles to watch the world’s second oldest football league.

Harmison, whose Northern League pedigree is nearly as long as his fast bowling hitlist, fronted the launch of the league’s Just Give It a Go Campaign.

The skilltraining ltd Northern League (sNL) wants to attract more spectators by offering free admission to up to three games at any of the league’s 42 grounds across the North-East and Cumbria.

The scheme, backed by the Football Association, is aimed at people, including families, who are football enthusiasts but rarely or never watch the grassroots game.

Regulars will be expected to pay as usual.

Harmison was a promising centre half himself, but decided that cricket should come first.

Spearheading the campaign launch at Ashington FC, in Ashington, Northumberland, at the weekend, he spoke of his other great sporting love.

He said: “I’ve always loved the Northern League. Our family grew up in it.

“To me it’s about all that’s good in grassroots sport – camaraderie, friendship and real community involvement.

“The standard of football is excellent and for a tenner you can have a great afternoon, including a pie, pint and a programme.”

Harmison’s brother, James, was due to play with the Ashington squad on Saturday after two years out through injury.

The match had to be cancelled because of the weather, but he is expected to play against Bedlington Terriers on Wednesday.

Previously, James Harmison had played a key role in several of Bedlington Terriers’ title winning seasons.

The fast bowler’s uncles, Mel, Jimmy and Kevin, have also been involved in the Northern League for many years – always with Northumberland clubs.

Northern League chairman and Northern Echo journalist Mike Amos said: “It’s a hugely welcoming fraternity.

“We’re confident that if people give it a go they’ll want to come back. We hope to attract both those who never watch football and those who might follow professional clubs and have a free when their team’s away.”

Although sNL gates have risen this season, league officials are anxious to build on that trend and to encourage greater involvement with community clubs.

Welcome packs, including a three-match complimentary ticket, will be available at sNL grounds on match days, from league officials or by emailing mikeamos81@aol.com