A TROPHY, specially-commissioned for the Clash of the Champions, will add spice to the friendly rivalry when Wanderers renew old acquaintances with Bury at Gigg Lane next month.

The Bolton Evening News and Bury Times, stablemates in the giant Newsquest Media Group, have combined to sponsor the pre-season game which brings together the Division One and Division Two Champions.

Both clubs have earmarked the Tuesday, July 29 game as an important test of their mettle for the new season.

The fixture sits prominently in Colin Todd's and Stan Ternent's friendly itineraries but it will have the added edge of the trophy being at stake. A penalty shoot-out is planned if the scores are level after 90 minutes.

You could enjoy the action in VIP-style, thanks to the BEN and the BT. Together we are giving away 60 tickets for the game, including pre-match dinner in the newly-opened Starkies Restaurant at Gigg Lane, plus half-time refreshments.

Watch early July editions of the BEN for details of our simple-to-enter competition and one of 15 pairs of tickets could be yours.

In addition, we are looking for a Wanderers mascot for the game and a special competition for youngsters aged 6-12 will also be featured.

Shakers commercial manager Nev Neville welcomed the involvement of the two local newspapers and suggested: "Playing for a trophy will add spice to what is sure to be a great curtain raiser to the season.

"But clubs had outstanding seasons to win their divisions and we expect a huge crowd."

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