Pools supporters will have the chance to see some familiar faces back in action this weekend as a host of former Hartlepool United players take part in a charity cricket match in Peterlee.

A number of former footballers with connections to Pools, Middlesbrough and Spennymoor Town will swap football boots for cricket bats once again following the success of last year’s inaugural event.

Team captains Micky Barron and Graeme Lee have confirmed their return for the fixture, which gets underway at 2pm on Sunday 28 June at Peterlee Cricket Club.

Several familiar faces from Hartlepool United’s recent history are set to feature, including Antony Sweeney, Mark Tinkler, Michael Nelson, Gary Liddle, Brad Walker, Tommy Miller, Jonathan Franks and Scott Fenwick.

Last year’s contest proved a memorable occasion, with former Middlesbrough midfielder Craig Hignett producing an unbeaten half-century to help Barron’s Blasters claim victory.

What began as a one-off fundraising event has quickly become a popular fixture, bringing together former players and supporters for an afternoon of sport and entertainment while raising money for a worthy cause.

Admission is priced at £3 for adults, with Under-16s admitted free of charge. Supporters attending the event will also have the opportunity to make additional donations to The Roy Simpson MBE Foundation, with both cash and card payments accepted on the gate.