A PUB is appealing for past winners of a traditional North-East sporting event to come forward for a reunion at this year's match.

The Hardwick Arms is the starting point for the Sedgefield Ball Game, which has taken place in the village every Shrove Tuesday for several hundred years.

The original ball game took place to celebrate the completion of the building of the church in Sedgefield, and the tradition has continued with hundreds of local people chasing a ball through the streets.

Mystery surrounds the centuries-old tradition, which is believed to be organised by a select committee, the membership of which is a closely guarded secret.

Peter Leigh Hamilton, the new landlord of the Hardwick Arms, who leases the pub from Jennings Brewery, said: "The ball game is an integral part of Sedgefield's history and traditions and the pub is a focal point for the event.

"I have managed to contact several past winners, but would love to hear from as many people as possible.

"It would be great to see if we could find the oldest living winner to get together with other champions."

The winner of the game, which usually lasts all day, is the person who manages to pass the ball three times through the bull ring on the village green.

Mr Leigh Hamilton, who moved into the area in September, has never seen a ball game but has been fascinated by tales from his regulars.

He has already traced several winners, going back to 1966 champion Fred Lower, and hopes to get them together for a pre-match photograph.

This year's game will be held on Tuesday, March 4, kicking-off at 1pm. Past winners can contact Mr Leigh Hamilton at the Hardwick Arms on (01740) 620218.