Firm fans show their team spirit
Oct 8 2007 by Graeme King, The Journal
FOOTBALL fans in companies right across the North-East are temporarily abandoning their usual football allegiances to pledge their loyalty to two new all star teams.
The Prince’s Trust Challenge Trophy’s All Star Football Match this coming Sunday will pit the blues of the Duke of Northumberland against the yellows of the Earl of Durham.
By pledging to wear their ‘colours with pride’, businesses will not only enjoy a great game of football, but also help the next generation of business start ups.
Law firm Dickinson Dees and printers Reed Print & Design are two of the firms who have signed up to back the teams and more are being sought to be corporate guests at the match at St James’s Park.
Legendary players Alan Shearer and Les Ferdinand will be playing together again, along with a host of other top footballing talents and celebrity players too.
Based on the north banks of the River Tyne, Dickinson Dees staff have already been wearing blue to back the Duke of Northumberland’s team.
While south of the Tyne, employees at Reed Print in Washington have worn yellow ties to support the Earl of Durham’s side.
Robin Bloom, senior partner at Dickinson Dees, said: "We are delighted to be supporting The Prince’s Trust Challenge Trophy.
"Not only is it set to be one of the most entertaining sporting events in the calendar, the impact that the funds raised from this event will have on the young lives in the North-East will be invaluable."
Reed Print’s commercial director Andrew Major said: "The north versus the south element of the game is great for businesses morale as we feel like we are all coming together with other businesses and people around us to support our region.
"This is an excellent cause that does such a lot for young people and we are delighted to be able to show our support."
The Prince’s Trust aims to raise enough money in the North-East to help 5,000 disadvantaged young people by the end of 2008.
Gates will open at 2pm and there will be live music acts and dance troupes cheering on the teams. Kick off will be at 4pm. A limited number of corporate places are available at £99 plus VAT for two corporate seats from Karen Waugh on (0191) 201 8682.
Normal tickets can be bought at the NUFC box office or via www.nufc.co.uk priced at £12 for adult tickets, £6 for children.
Tickets for the players’ after match dinner are £100 per person plus VAT.
For further information log on to www.princes-trust.org.uk/trophy.
