AN annual cricket match to remember popular beat policeman Chris Beardwell will be held in Chipping Sodbury tomorrow.

It will be the fifth consecutive year that players will turn out for the Chris Beardwell Challenge Cup game at the town's cricket club in Wickwar Road.

Last year's event raised more than £1,000 and this time all the proceeds will go to the Children's Hospice South West.

Chris died five years ago at the age of 70 after a period of ill health.

As well as being a familiar face on the beat, he was also enthusiastic about cricket, as a player and umpire of local matches in the town.

After his death from cancer, his widow Trizia and son, Matthew, set up the memorial cup in his honour as the most appropriate way to remember him and raise money at the same time.

Trizia said: "Chris was an ardent cricket fan, playing for both the Metropolitan Police and later Sodbury Cricket Club before qualifying as an umpire.

"The match on Friday starts at 6.30pm, weather permitting, and there will also be a bouncy castle and craft tent, a barbecue and bar, as well as a raffle with prizes kindly donated by local businesses.

"Everyone is very welcome to join in the fun."

The match will involve a Chris Beardwell team playing against an old boys side.