A RESIDENTIAL home boss in Ilkley is hoping that past and

present soccer stars will play along in a novel way to raise

charity cash.

Wendy Holmes, the manager of Glen Rosa, Grove Road, has

contacted Leeds United in the hope that players or former

players can be enticed to help

support the special game playing event. She is waiting for a response from the club.

The event is part of national fund-raising effort for Methodist Homes, the charity which runs Glen Rosa.

Ludo enthusiasts and Scrabble fanatics are being invited to take part in a marathon board games event.

Individuals and community groups are also being encouraged to organise a sponsored board game event to contribute to the week long 'Great Games Gala' at the end of this month.

Organiser Steph Allen said: "The Great Games Gala is an opportunity for people of all ages to get together to play board games and table top games for a morning, afternoon, evening, overnight or even a whole weekend to raise money for older people in need.

"Children can play snakes and ladders; teenagers can play Cluedo; mums and dads can play Monopoly; grans and grandads can play Scrabble."

Any board game is appropriate and any age range can take part. Most events will take place between, February 17 and February 25, but events can be organised any time after the main week.

Groups such as brownies, guides, scouts, office workers in their lunch hour, schools and community organisations such as the Womens' Institute are encouraged to take part.

Ms Allen said: "The idea is that people can either be charged an entry fee to an event or they can be charged per game. It's up to the individual organiser how they raise the money."

Anyone wanting further details about the event can contact Wendy Holmes at Glen Rosa on 01943 609604.