TICKETS are available for a sportsmen's dinner staged by the Chester-le-Street and District branch of Sunderland AFC Supporters' Association.

The event, traditionally a sell-out night held at the Stadium of Light banqueting suite on Maundy Thursday, takes place on Thursday, April 8, at 7.30pm.

Guest speaker is John McGovern, the player who started his footballing career under Brian Clough at Hartlepool. McGovern was signed by Clough at Hartlepool, Derby County, Leeds United and Nottingham Forest, making him captain at all four clubs.

At Forest, he won league championship and European Cup medals, in the 1970s.

The event also features comedian Sid Dennis and former Sunderland players. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal.

Tickets, costing £28, can be booked at the next branch meeting, at Relton Terrace Workingmen's Club, Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, on Tuesday, starting at 7.45pm.

They are also available from the club on Sunderland home match days, when transport leaves for the stadium at 1.15pm, or from Eddie Lowerson on 0788-792 1726.