FORMER England and Newcastle United striker Malcolm MacDonald kicked off a major exhibition for disabled and older people yesterday.

The Disability North Exhibition 2000, which is being held at Gateshead International Stadium until Friday, brings together manufacturers and suppliers of a range of disability-related equipment.

MacDonald, known by most as Supermac, said: "I'm delighted to lend my support to this excellent exhibition. I am amazed at the scale of the event and the amount of equipment available.

"Disability North has been working for many years to make life better for disabled people."

This year's specialised event focuses on the issues surrounding children and disability.

The children's corner consists of child-centred equipment, information and activities.