Alastair Campbell, who was Prime Minister Tony Blair's spokesperson, will be Keighley Cougars' special guest when they stage their first Co-operative Championship One game of 2009 against Oldham at Cougar Park on Sunday (3.00pm).

Campbell, who was brought up in Keighley where his father was a Vet, will be coming to Cougar Park to write an article about the Cougars and his return to Keighley for a magazine.

He said; "The Cougars saw an entry on my blog that when I was a small boy and lived in Keighley that I had dreamed about playing rugby league for the club.

"The club then made contact with me and asked if I could come to a game and help lift their profile. I was delighted to help and at the same time show support for the town's 'Love Keighley' campaign".

Helen Carter, the Cougars' General Manager, said: "Alastair Campbell's visit together with our Family Fun event and the first league game of the season will make it a very special day for the club.

"As part of Keighley's business community we too support the 'Love Keighley campaign

" We're proud to be able to host one of Keighley's most famous sons at one of our games".

Fantastic scoop helen, top marks. I think we should dig up the bronte sisters and either bury them on the centre spot or crush whats left of them and sread the ashes over the pitch. If nothing else it will make a change for the lads from playing on sand.

I am sure they wanted to play rugby.

From what we know of her, Emily probably would have done given the chance. Suspect Charlotte would have been too short sighted, and Anne was supposedly the quiet type.

But they might well have watched the game given the chance. Again from what we know, Branwell might have enjoyed the bar!

As said earlier, great coup Helen.

Are you comeing over,should be a good day.

I agree, it should be.
Sadly not, I've a horrible feeling I might be getting some very bad news tomorrow, so just not in the mood for much at present

Get their brother in the bar and you'll make a blo#dy fortune

I overheard Alistair turn the close hard fought Cougar win into a landslide and championship winning performance for Oldham! Then he realised he was not a political aide anymore and agreed it was a hard fought victory.

Disappointed Mr Cmpbell did mot make to downstairs barI understand he may be busy but never forget your roots