ROSSENDALE's branch of the Manchester United Supporters' Club is backing Gateway in Blackburn.

Manchester United have adopted Mencap/Gateway as one of their charities for the year and have provided Blackburn Senior Gateway Club with an autographed ball to help raise funds.

Ian Boswell, secretary of the local club, which meets at the Royal Hotel in Waterfoot, said: "We have agreed to organise a social evening which will take the form of a games night on April 29 in the new sports bar of the Royal Hotel.

"Events planned will include pool and snooker and the Royal has offered to provide a supper with an auction for the ball being held during the evening."

The ball is to go on display soon and bids will be accepted prior to the night.