CRICKET legend Paul Collingwood has teamed up with event organiser, blogger and North-East party planner Maddie Costigan to host a first class celebratory Twenty-20 cricket match in his name in the region.
The former English all-rounder and three-times Ashes winner has today (THURS 1st) met with the Maddieness Events team at the Emirates Riverside stadium in preparation for the first ever Sunderland vs Newcastle T20 cricket match this summer.
The Durham cricketer will host the event on August 20th to celebrate his testimonial year at Durham County Cricket Club.
He has teamed up with Maddie, owner of Maddieness Events, to ensure the star-filled match and after-celebrations are memorable for both players and spectators.
“Paul and I were keen to host a big event at his home ground in Chester le Street to allow his fans to celebrate this special year with him,” said Maddie, who has worked with clients including Sir Peter Vardy and Vertu PLC.
“We have been overwhelmed with support from local businesses who want to partner the event – it’s going to be a real North-East celebration and a great way to toast Paul’s amazing career.”
Donned in his beloved red and white stripes, Paul will lead the Sunderland side into battle under the manager of ex-Black Cats boss Peter Reid, while Newcastle’s squad will be coached by Magpie’s legend Kevin Keegan.
Paul said: “I wanted to host a celebratory testimonial game that hadn’t been done before; the concept of the Newcastle v Sunderland Derby seemed perfect. Everyone seems really excited about the game and the party atmosphere that guests will enjoy afterwards.”
Hadrian’s Tipi – a huge triple tipi-style tent – will be at the Emirates Riverside Stadium as a deluxe, unique hospitality area for both daytime spectators and post-match celebrations, with a private bar, live music and BBQ.
The match, supported by Ward Hadaway, M24Seven and Infiniti Newcastle, will raise funds for the Graham Wylie Foundation, a charity working to improve the lives of vulnerable children and young people across the region.
For more information visit www.Colly40.com and for VIP hospitality / Tipi tickets contact maddie@maddieness.co.uk. To purchase ground admission tickets, contact the DCCC box office 0844 499 4466