It wasn't just cricket for Ron Atkinson

Express & Star columnist Ron Atkinson gave cricket supporters a dressing room dressing down.

'Big Ron' was the star attraction at Beacon Cricket Club's annual sporting dinner at the Copthorne Hotel in Brierley Hill last night and 11 guests were kitted out as the former Albion, Manchester United and Villa manager slipped back into managerial mode.

Atkinson took up the role of an angry gaffer after finding his Manchester United side 2-0 down at half-time to non-league Beacon FC in the third round of the FA Cup.

Beacon social secretary Lee Westwood, who organised the event in conjunction with Steve Saul of Route 39, had his striking skills questioned during Big Ron's pep-talk.

Westwood said: "It was a great start to the evening and Big Ron seemed to relish taking us to task.

"Ron was good value and kept everyone entertained with a few tales from his playing and managerial days.

"The night was a big success."

Radio WM's Paul Franks was compere for the evening, which attracted more than 230 guests, while comedian Josh Daniels provided some added laughter.

Items of memorabilia were auctioned off to raise funds for the Wombourne-based club, who play in the Staffs Clubs League Division One.

One lucky punter walked away with a signed Wayne Rooney England shirt, after landing first prize in the raffle.