John Helm, the Baildon-born television sports commentator, has been in La Manga this week for the Sir Steven Redgrave Golden Five pro-celebrity golf tournament which will go out on Channel 5 in the New Year.

John, who is president of Baildon Cricket Club, has been rubbing shoulders with a host of the country's top sporting stars - including Darren Gough who played 18 holes on Tuesday before flying to the United States where he is consulting a specialist over the injured right knee which wrecked his chances of taking part in the current Ashes series.

"Darren was due to have played throughout the tournament but was forced to leave for his appointment with the specialist," said Helm.

Another Yorkshire player taking part in the star-studded event, which Sir Steven hopes will help to raise £5m for children, is all-rounder Gavin Hamilton who missed practically the whole of last season because his confidence as a bowler completely deserted him.

Hamilton, who plays for Pudsey St Lawrence in the Bradford League, sought psychological advice for the problem towards the end of the summer and Yorkshire

chairman Geoff Cope is hoping that he will be back to boost the county attack next year.

"Gavin seemed his usual perky self while playing his round of golf yesterday," said Helm. "He flies straight out to Perth to play grade cricket after the tournament and he told me he was feeling very confident about his future."