MICKLEY-BORN Bob Stokoe is one of the North-East’s favourite sons as he helped both Newcastle United and Sunderland to FA Cup glory.

And now local footballers from Prudhoe Town are looking to emulate some of his success when they contest the Bob Stokoe Shield against the stars of the future from Sunderland AFC’s U23 side.

The friendly game between the Sunderland youngsters and Wearside League outfit Prudhoe will take place on the evening of May 17.

It is all in aid of raising funds for Ferndene Hospital, based in Prudhoe, which provides treatment to young people with complex health, behavioural and emotional needs.

Stokoe, who grew up in the Prudhoe area, won the FA Cup in 1955 as a player with Newcastle before famously managing North-East rivals Sunderland to the coveted trophy in 1973.

His family have given permission for organisers of the fund-raising game at Kimberly Park, in Prudhoe, to use his name, with a big crowd expected for the match.

Proceeds from the event, which is priced at £3 for adults and £1 for children, will go towards the purchase of sports equipment for the young people at Ferndene.

Tickets are available from Ferndene Hospital, Prudhoe Town Community Centre and the Spetchells Centre, in Prudhoe.