FOOTBALLING ambassador Sir Bobby Charlton will be visiting Tunbridge Wells in the New Year to help raise funds for a local cricket club. The former England and Manchester United legend will be guest of honour at the inaugural dinner of the West Kent Sporting Club, a dining club founded by the Bells Yew Green Cricket Club to raise funds for ground development and a flourishing junior section.

Also on the bill for the evening will be Test selector and former England, Derbyshire and Essex all-rounder, Geoff Miller, who is regarded as the best cricket after-dinner speaker on the circuit.

Hosting the evening will by club president, Bob "The Cat" Bevan, another leading after-dinner entertainer, who hopes to organise three dining club events each year. Until now the Bells Yew Green Club have rented their ground on a short-term lease, but have an opportunity to buy a 125-year lease for £30,000.

Bevan said: "This will give us the chance to build a pavilion and otherwise improve what is a vital amenity for the village."

Tickets for the dinner, being held at The Spa Hotel on Thursday, January 17, are £50 or £45 for West Kent Sporting Club Members. Telephone enquiries to 01892 750094, fax 01892 750089 or email bob@bobthecatbevan.co.uk.