FOOTBALL memorabilia collected by one of the Newcastle United fans killed on Flight MH17 will be auctioned early next year.

Thousands of matchday programmes – some dating to the 1920s – and football books will go under the hammer at St James’ Park on Sunday, February 22, to raise money for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

They have been donated by the family of John Alder, 63, of Low Fell, Gateshead, who died with fellow Newcastle fan Liam Sweeney, 28 and more than 200 other passengers when their flight was shot down over Ukraine in July,

The dedicated fans were flying to New Zealand to watch their team play in a pre-season tournament.

Mr Alder’s sister Joyce Robbins, of Darlington, said: “As a family, we all wanted to see John’s memorabilia go to help other people.

“His collection meant so much to him and we wanted to make sure it didn’t just disappear with nothing positive to show for it.

“He had a number of Sir Bobby’s books at home and we’re sure we’ve made the right decision to help the Foundation. I’m sure John would approve.”

Auctioneers Anderson and Garland and Newcastle United have offered their services free of charge to help John’s family and the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

More details about John Alder’s football collection and the auction will be released in the coming weeks.

Bidders will be able to view the collection at St James’ Park the day before the auction.

Sunday (December 21) sees Newcastle United take on Sunderland in the Tyne Wear derby.

Fans of both clubs donated money to charity in memory of Mr Alder and Mr Sweeney.

One collection, originally organised by Sunderland fans to buy a floral wreath, raised over £33,000.

Mrs Robbins Joyce hopes this weekend’s game is one to remember for all the right reasons.

She said: “We’ve been very touched by the support we’ve received from both Sunderland and Newcastle football clubs and their fans.

“It’s a big game for local football fans and I know John would have been happy if Newcastle won and miserable if they didn’t. He was a true fan and would just want to go to the match and support his team.”