By Pam McClounie

Last updated at 11:51, Monday, 20 August 2012

Footballers league teams across the north will go head-to-head with the public in a charity golf contest.

Carlisle United Football Club is backing the inaugural Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) tournament by pledging a team to join the likes of Middlesbrough and Hartlepool United out on the fairways.

David Hodgson, former Liverpool striker and manager of Darlington FC, came up with the idea and set about contacting friends and former colleagues from his long career, both on the field and off it.

The event, which takes place at Rockliffe Hall, near Darlington, on Wednesday, September 5, will raise money for GNAAS, which runs the Pride of Cumbria aircraft from its base at Langwathby, near Penrith.

The charity also covers the north east and North Yorkshire, and all of the league teams from this area have been invited to play.

Mr Hodgson said: “I just wanted to do something to help this fantastic cause. Hopefully, by bringing the footballing community together, we can raise plenty of money to keep the helicopters flying.

“I’ve spoken to players and management from all the clubs in the region. I know from my playing days that the competition between the clubs will be fierce. We are hoping to make this an annual event and a real fixture in the North’s sporting calendar.”

Carlisle United manager Greg Abbott said: “Football’s a big family so we didn’t have to give it a moment’s thought when Dave rang and asked us to get involved, especially when it is helping something as important as the air ambulance. It was a no-brainer. We are looking forward to the day.”

Mr Hodgson is also offering the naming rights of the winners’ trophy to the highest bidder.

A team of four costs £500 and includes breakfast, 18 holes of championship golf and a two-course evening meal, created by Rockliffe’s award-winning chef Kenny Atkinson.

Breakfast is from 10.30am, golf starts at 1pm, and the evening meal will commence at 7.30pm.

Following the meal there will be entertainment from Kevin Connelly, an auction and a raffle.

Sponsors are needed for prizes throughout the day, including longest drives and nearest the pins, plus team and individual trophies.

Any auction or raffle prizes would be gratefully received.

For more information please contact Ruth Davey of the GNAAAS on 01325 487263.

First published at 11:24, Monday, 20 August 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk