TWO reporters are preparing to swap the newsroom for the Theatre of Dreams when they take part in a charity football tournament at Old Trafford.

Manchester United fans Liam Thorp and Andrew Bardsley, who are reporters for The Bolton News and Bury Times, are thrilled at the prospect of stepping out on the pitch tomorrow as part of The Christie’s Dream Team Cup.

They will form part of a Media United team that will compete with six other sides during the day, before enjoying a post-tournament meal and talk from former United winger Lee Sharpe.

The money raised on the day will benefit teenage and young cancer patients at The Christie and support the new Palatine Treatment Centre, which provides 31 state of the art clinical beds for haematology and transplant patients and teenage and young adult patients.

Prior to kick off, Liam and Andrew will be given exclusive access to the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel and dugout.

Liam said: “I think that will be the spine-tingling moment for me, walking down the tunnel where I have watched my heroes come out from on so many occasions.

“I will savour that moment because, after five minutes of trying to play on the enormous Old Trafford pitch, I will most like collapse in a heap.

“I don’t think my current diet and fitness plan is in line with the standards of the Premier League.”

Bury Times reporter Andrew said: “As a goalkeeper, I have always wanted to emulate my childhood hero, Peter Schmeichel. I had a few trials with clubs as a youngster, but this is the closest I have got to stepping over that white line.

“Most importantly, the day will help to raise money for a great cause. It is a cause close to my heart, as a member of my family passed away at the Christie.”

Mary McLaughlin, from The Christie Charity, said: “We are delighted to be an official charity partner of Manchester United and, thanks to its generosity, are able to offer this unique fundraising opportunity to Manchester United fans.”