Football rivalry put to one side in aid of a good cause

North East football rivalry has been put to one side to support a leading charity in the region.

The Sunderland-Newcastle derby game is one of the most fiercely fought in the football season, with fans desperate for their side to win.

But now NUFC has pledged its allegiance to its biggest rival ahead of the game on October 27, by supporting Sunderland AFC's charitable arm.

The Foundation of Light, which supports grassroots sports and education across the region, annually uses the derby match to run its Show Your Colours campaign, encouraging businesses, schools and community groups to not only wear the colours of their favourite team but to also buy Show Your Colours raffle tickets.

And among the prizes on offer this time round is a signed NUFC football shirt, donated by St James' Park.

"I must express our gratitude to Newcastle United for supporting this campaign by providing a signed shirt for the Show Your Colours raffle.

While there may be fierce competition between the two clubs on the pitch we are united in trying to make the North East a better place to live for everyone," said Phil King, head of commercial at The Foundation of Light.

"The Show Your Colours campaign is a great opportunity for people to celebrate the positive spirit of local competition whilst supporting education and sporting programmes in their community. It's also fantastic for businesses who want to engage their employees and spread some community spirit.

"We've had a very positive response from businesses, community groups and schools that we work with and would love to hear from others interested in getting involved."

The raffle tickets will be going on sale in workplaces, pubs, community centres and schools with other prizes including signed Sunderland AFC shirts, signed SAFC footballs as well as VIP match experiences at upcoming SAFC home league games.

Schools and workplaces are holding Show Your Colours days with pupils and employees respectively being encouraged to wear the strips or colours of their favourite sports teams.

Businesses, community groups, pubs and schools interested in getting involved in the Show Your Colours campaign are asked to contact the Foundation of Light on 0191 551 5191.

The Foundation of Light works with more than 42,000 children and adults every year in sport, education, health and community programme and, whilst being affiliated to the club, relies on fundraising for 90 per cent of project costs.