Players at Hartlepool Cricket Club are counting down to the annual double wicket competition in memory of club legend Ian Jackson.

Every year Hartlepool cricketers - both past and present - compete against each other in teams of two for the coveted Ian Jackson Memorial Double Wicket Trophy.

This year’s event, on Sunday, August 30, marks the 10th anniversary since the Park Drive favourite sadly passed away at the age of 47.

Ian Jackson’s wife, Louise Jackson, said: “2026 is the 10th anniversary of Ian’s passing so we are making the event extra special this year and raising money for Hartlepool’s Alice House Hospice.

Louise Jackson, left, is pictured with her two children Max and Martha with some of the auction items.

placeholder image — Louise Jackson, left, is pictured with her two children Max and Martha with some of the auction items.

“The support we’ve received has been fantastic with several sporting memorabilia items donated which we’ll auction on the day.

“We’ve had lots of raffle prizes donated and other generous support from people far and wide.

“We’ll also be holding a bonus ball draw for two hospitality tickets in the directors’ box for a match at Newcastle United which have been kindly donated.

“I can’t thank people enough for the amazing support. It is hugely appreciated and the money being raised is going to a very worthy, local cause.”

Cricketing legend Sir Geoffrey Boycott is supporting the Hartlepool charity event.

The auction items are a framed Yorkshire shirt signed by cricketing legend Sir Geoffrey Boycott, a framed and signed Scott Borthwick Surrey shirt, a framed and signed 2026 Durham shirt and a cricket bat signed by current Yorkshire players.

As well as the double wicket competition, there’ll be entertainment from DJ Les Watts, music from local band Guess and Brad Frank plus a barbecue.

The double wicket event gets underway at noon.

Admission is free, the bar will be open and spectators are very welcome.

A bumper weekend is expected at Park Drive as the following day on Monday, August 31, Hartlepool Cricket Club’s Over 40s football team will take on Hartlepool Cricket Club’s Over 40s cricket team in a 20-over charity cricket match with all proceeds again going to Alice House Hospice.

Anyone wishing to bid on the auction items in advance or wanting more information about the Newcastle United tickets draw can contact Louise Jackson on 07900 368555 or email [email protected] .