CLUB footballers were overcome by a Newcastle United XI in a well-supported charity match.

The experienced United team, which included reserve team coach Tommy Craig, first team physio Derek Wright,, reserve and youth team members and other backroom staff, ended 5-0 winners against a side from Sacriston Workingmen's Club. Despite the final score, organiser Phillip Hayton described it as 'a very competitive match', supported by around 650 spectators at Chester-le-Street Riverside. Participants and many of the crowd then headed to the Garden Farm Hotel, in Chester-le-Street, where a raffle helped to take the proceeds on the night to more than £2,400. The money is going to the Mary Hayton Cancer Research UK Memorial Fund, in memory of Phillip's wife, who lost her battle against cancer in June. A cheque for the final sum will be presented to Cancer Research UK at a further fund raising night, next month. Phillip paid tribute to Newcastle United, for supporting the fun football match, to Chester-le-Street District Council, for use of the facilities at the Riverside Sports Area, and to the Garden Farm Hotel, for the post-match function. He also thanked the players from Sacriston Workingmen's Club, including brother-in-law Terence Murphy, Mary's brother, for their efforts.

Details of other events and the presentation night, on October 25, will be announced later.