RYAN Kidd's testimonial festivities have taken on greater significance since the defender was forced to retire earlier this month.

Tickets are now available for a War of the Roses boxing night at Preston Guild Hall on January 22, which will be the first of many events in the left-back's honour.

And what would have been a celebration of his ten-year Deepdale career, is now also an event to help the footballer raise funds to support his family.

Kidd, 30, admitted last week that he would be relying on the testimonial funds in the short-term after revealing that his contract with Preston was to expire in the summer -- so he only gets a six month payoff.

And to make matters worse he had been unable to obtain injury insurance since his neck was first injured 18 months ago. And he won't receive a payoff even though further damage to his neck could now leave him paralysed. So Kidd could do with North End fans turning out in force to the events, starting with the boxing night.

All the Preston North End players will be present along with manager David Moyes.

Preston-born Match of the Day pundit and ex-footballer Mark Lawrenson will be the master of ceremonies.

On the night a series of amateur boxers from Lancashire and Yorkshire will battle each other and gain points for their county for each win.

These will be totted up to see who wins the War of the Roses night overall.

Auditorium seats are available for £9 and there are ringside tickets which include a three course meal for £49.50. To book call the Guild Hall box office on 01772 258858.