Halesowen Cricket Club is set to host the sixth annual Paul McCann memorial match on Sunday, July 22.

The all day event, which see a Halesowen X1 take on the Royal Navy Cricket Team, is being held in honour of local sailor Paul McCann who died in a submarine accident in 2007.

All proceeds go towards the Paul McCann Fund For Needy Children which donates cash to good causes in the Black Country.

Paul’s father Brian McCann said: “The annual Navy game has become a highlight of the calendar.

“Coupled with the annual ball and other fundraising events, they play an integral part in our efforts to raise funds for needy children.”

He added: “So far we have been able to help so many deserving causes and bring happiness to numerous Children and that’s a fitting memorial to Paul and his strong sense of children’s welfare. “I welcome the Royal Navy for the sixth annual match and thank them for playing their part once again to raise as much money for the fund as possible.”

The day starts at 8.30am when Paul’s friends will hold their own annual charity cricket match and there will be a fancy dress charity Zumbathon from 11.45am to 1.15pm. There will also be a BBQ, children’s entertainment and music throughout the day.

The main event will begin at 1.30pm as the Royal Navy cricket team will try and win back the Paul McCann Trophy which Halesowen X1 won last year.

Halesowen’s 1st Team Captain Wes Griffiths said: “It’s great to have the Navy visiting us again this year. It’s an honour to get the chance to play against a group of guys who do such a great service for our country. It’s a big day in our calendar, they are always strong and provide us with a massive challenge.

“The day means a lot to the club to remember a lost member who a lot of people at the club still remember very fondly, and that is what our club is about after all, it’s members, and this is a good way to pay respect to Paul’s memory and give something to a great cause.”

The former Earls High School pupil’s friend Simon Walker is delighted with the success of the Paul McCann Fund For Needy Children.

He said: “Paul's passion was the welfare of children and it was entirely fitting that a fund was set up in his memory to support many causes who try to improve the lives of children.

“So far they have more than lived up to that motto with approximately £60,000 raised and £44,561.81 donated too many local causes.”

Gates open on Sunday, July 22 at Halesowen Cricket Club at 11.30am and admission into the ground is free but donations will be accepted.

For more information visit www.halesowencricketclub.co.uk or www.fundforneedychildren.com.