Paul Proudlock, Richard Prokas, Paul Murray and Danny Grainger are among the former Carlisle United stars lined up for a legends game at Penrith AFC later this month to raise money for charity and celebrate the host club’s exciting off-field progress.
Around 30 former United players, also including Jeff Thorpe, Graham Anthony, Stephane Pounewatchy, Scott Dobie along with a number who have represented both clubs, are poised to don the famous deckchair shirts for a match at the town’s Leo Group Frenchfield Park Stadium on Sunday, May 21, when money is collected to support motor neurone disease research.
This is in memory of ex-Carlisle United player Tony Hopper, who died from MND in 2018, and also the late former Scottish rugby union international Doddie Weir. His My Name’5 Doddie foundation has been backed by Penrith AFC and also the town’s rugby club.
Former striker Grant Holt, who is from Carlisle and played in the Premier League for Norwich City, could also be in action at Penrith.
Carlisle’s legends have been reunited a number of times in recent years; most recently in April 2022, when members of the mid-1990s Third Division championship-winning squad who also played at Wembley took on 2005-06 League One promotion side and league trophy finalists.
Murray, a former Premier League player capped by England at under-21 and B level, will take of charge United’s legends, while former Penrith boss Dave Heslop — a former Carlisle youth team manager — will return to the Northern League club’s dugout where he spent six seasons.
Next Sunday’s game is the last to be played on grass at Frenchfield Park, which is about to undergo major refurbishment with the installation of an artificial surface, new floodlights and much-improved perimeter fencing. A £600,000-plus contribution for this project is being made by sports charity the Football Foundation.
“We’re just pleased to be involved and helping a very important cause with motor neurone disease research,” said Heslop. “It’s close to the heart not just with Doddie Weir but also Tony Hopper who was well known to us all.
“On the whole the response from the Penrith lads has been very good. A lot of them still think they can still run around like they did in the old days….we will certainly find that out! They want to help. It’s always good when old players get together after such a spell apart, it brings back memories, good times.
“It’s a cliche but the result doesn’t matter. As with all ex-players, whether pro or semi pro, they all want to win. The main thing is that everyone enjoys themselves, makes it a great experience in the day and everyone remembers the reason we’re doing it.
“I’m sure anyone who comes along to support the charity and to see the game will enjoy the spectacle and have fun.”
Murray grew up in Penrith and trained with the town’s football club under Heslop as a teenager before turning pro. He is currently Blackpool FC’s head of academy recruitment.
“There’s nothing better,” the ex-midfielder said of player reunions. “Often you don’t get chance to meet up and this is a good occasion to do that. I’m hoping the fans come down and have a day out. I think it will be good for everyone and it’s all for a good cause.
“Hopefully people won’t be afraid to approach the lads for autographs and pictures.”
Of the game he added: “I think the Penrith players will be younger and fitter. It’ll be a bit of fun but you know what the lads are like — they’ll be competitive as well! Everyone thinks they’ll be able yo play 90 minutes but a quarter of an hour or 20 minutes is a stint in itself! You forget how big the pitch is, you think you’re fit. It’s tough!”
Penrith AFC chairman Billy Williams said: “Our club are keen to help all those who are less fortunate. We really appreciate the backing we have received from local businesses in an effort to maximise the support we can give to this worthy cause.”
Match sponsors are the Leo Group, Carlisle-based Borderbrite and Penrith-based Atkinson Building Contractors. Carlisle’s deckchair kit for the match is being sponsored by city-based North Lakes Energy Group.
The match referee is Kenny Brown, his assistants are John Burns and Lee Tedford and the four official is Gary Graham.
The game at Frenchfield Park kicks off at 2pm on May 21 with gates opening for spectators at 12.45pm. Admission costs £5 for adults, concessions £3 and entry for children is free.
