CRICKET legend Derek Randall will be visiting the region later this month.

It will be his pace of his wit, rather than his talent with the bat, that cricket fans are hoping to enjoy.

The former England and Nottinghamshire star, famed for his fielding and unusual batting style, is guest speaker at a sportsmen's dinner in aid of Shotley Bridge Cricket Club, County Durham.

Almost 200 tickets have already been sold for the event at Consett Civic Centre on Thursday, September 29, and organisers are hoping even more local people will be tempted to attend.

The dinner is the idea of club vice-chairman Ged Golightly who wants to raise £2,000 to help upgrade the clubhouse and develop Shotley Bridge's junior programme.

He said: "I've been to dinners like this for football clubs, but with the current national enthusiasm for cricket, I thought people might enjoy seeing a cricketer.

"I've heard Derek Randall's humorous speeches before and they really are entertaining."

Tickets are £25 and also includes a three-course meal and entertiainment by comedian Terry Joyce.

For more details, contact Mr Golightly on 0774 0646594.