DESPITE all the well-documented problems he has faced, Paul Gascoigne remains one of football’s bestloved figures.

And the fact that he has agreed to appear in an “all-stars” fundraising match in aid of Darlington Football Club is tremendous news for the struggling club.

Well done to Quakers’ manager Dave Penney and his assistant Martin Gray for pulling off a great coup in persuading Gazza to put his boots back on.

Only last month, the England legend, who has battled a range of illnesses, including alcoholism and bulimia, revealed that he had come close to death.

His appearance at The Northern Echo Darlington Arena, alongside a host of other footballing stars, will ensure national publicity for Darlington’s cause, as the club fights for its future.

And if someone like Gazza is prepared to do his bit, after all the difficulties he has had to overcome, the least the people of Darlington can do is turn out in force to demonstrate their support for the club.

So far, the response to Darlington going into administration has been disappointing, with crowds at home games failing to rise above 3,000.

But the prospect of seeing Gazza – along with the likes of Gareth Southgate, Marco Gabbiadini, Bernie Slaven and Kevin Ball – turning out at the arena, must surely attract a big crowd.

Make a date to be there for a memorable family occasion on May 3 – and help save Darlington Football Club at the end of its 125th anniversary season.