ALTHOUGH I think that local entertainer Tony Slater is smashing when it comes to raising money for good causes, I do think that he should stay away from performing for the good of footballers.

To be taking part in a show to raise money for Lee Cartwright's testimonial is a far cry from singing for St Catherine's Hospice or Derian House -- two worthy charities.

In my day, when footballers didn't earn that much, testimonials were a great way of saying thanks to the lads who had helped put the club and its town on the map.

But now, when some of the lads at PNE are probably earning around £50,000 to £70,000 and their manager drives a Porche, I don't think there is any need for them to have a tax-free lump sum in their back pocket simply for doing their job for ten years. Footballers in top clubs have got pop star status.

The likes of Beckham earn a reported £25,000 per match and still want more.

So come on Tony. I know the lads have helped you with your new CD for charity -- well done it's great -- but surely a card would suffice.

Stay away from raising money for footballers whose weekly wage would probably go a long way in helping a real charity to save lives.

John Jemson, Walton-le-Dale, Preston.