FORMER Newcastle United players John Anderson and Ian Bogie will step back onto the football pitch on Wednesday, May 7 to play in this year's Football Aid event.

Twenty-eight enthusiastic Newcastle United supporters have secured their opportunity to play on the hallowed turf at St James' Parkby successfully bidding on line at www.footballaid.com.

Football Aid Chairman Craig Paterson said, "Since Football Aid was launched in 2001 more than 9000 players have enjoyed the very unique experience that we offer. We are delighted that this year 900 more will share that experience.

'With the support of our successful bidders and our legends, we have been able to make donations to several charities and good causes around the UK. This is truly a win-win experience for everyone."

Football Aid allows fans the chance to 'Live the Dream' and take part in the ultimate football experience. They get to pull on their favourite shirt, run through the tunnel onto the hallowed turf and play in the stadium of their dreams for either 45 or 90 minutes alongside their football heroes.

The charity matches are held at the end of the football season at iconic stadiums around the UK and in Europe. More than 300 games have taken place since the concept was first introduced in 2001.

Football Aid was founded by Scottish businessman Craig Paterson and has so far generated £1 million pounds for registered charities and voluntary organisations.

All funds raised from events are distributed through Football Aid's parent charity, Field of Dreams towards diabetes research, education and management projects and also to charities nominated for funding by the clubs involved in the events