SUNDERLAND manager Mick McCarthy is the latest big name guest to announce he is coming to the sell-out Local Heroes Awards 2003.

McCarthy, who has the Black Cats flying in Division One, will join Boro boss Steve McClaren on the top table at the event known as the "Oscars of Grass Roots Sport".

McClaren had already confirmed his attendance at The Northern Echo's event of the year, which is powered by npower.

And now McCarthy has joined the party, saying: "It is vital to encourage sport at grassroots level and I am delighted to be able to join The Northern Echo for the Local Heroes Awards 2003.

"I'm really looking forward to meeting some of the region's sporting stars of the future."

Both managers will be presenting awards to the stars of grassroots sport at the Tall Trees Hotel at Yarm on November 20.

McClaren will also be picking his "Dream Team" for a special competition hosted by 96.6 TFM. All the guests on the night will get the chance to pick a "Dream Team" from a squad of the world's top players and win a VIP day out at a Boro match.

In another coup for the event, one of the stars of world opera, Suzannah Clarke, who hails from Teesside, will also be starring at the awards.

Boro supporter Suzannah has performed at opera houses all over the world. She also sang at the opening of Euro 96, the England versus Slovakia match in Middlesbrough, and the Labour Party Conference.

She will open the Local Heroes Awards 2003 with a piece of music specially arranged for the night.

The event, which is in its fourth year, aims to celebrate the achievements of those who dedicate their lives to sport for the sheer love of it.

An auction and raffle on the night will raise money for Sports Aid Northern, which provides financial support for young sportsmen and women across the region.

With more than 500 people attending, all tickets are now sold out.