MONMOUTHSHIRE’S former Eggheads star CJ de Mooi will play in a charity pool tournament to help raise money for a terminally ill man.

The professional quizzer, of Eggheads fame, will play against Newport number one Andrew Corten on Saturday in a bid to raise money for Robert Harrhy, 47, who has been diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer.

There will also be an auction that includes a signed Newport County shirt, a signed Newport Gwent Dragons ball and an array of other sporting memorabilia.

“It’s tremendous to know people care about you enough to do something like this,” said Mr Harrhy. “I’ve had some really bad news but to see friends you’re close to rally round is heart-warming.

“I’ve played pool and snooker for over 25 years and it’s something that’s really close to my heart so it’s a great idea and will hopefully help me with my bid to seek alternative medicine.”

The charity match between Mr Corten and Mr de Mooi will be the main attraction of a night that includes Riley’s pool team playing against Mr Harrhy’s old club, the Pockets.

“I am a big fan of cue sports,” said Mr de Mooi. “Andrew knew I liked snooker and pool so asked me to do it and as it’s a great event to raise money for a worthy cause I agreed.

“I hope most people never find themselves in Robert’s situation but I hope that when my time comes, people will want to spend time with me as much as everyone seems to want to with Robert in this instance.

“This is centred on something that is very close to Robert and hopefully it can be a lovely lasting memory for him. It’ll be a good night with lots of fun, laughs and prizes, and that is what life is all about.”

The event is open to anybody that wants to play with pool, darts and snooker being played on the night.

It will cost £2 to play a game, and if you lose then you’ll be expected to donate an extra £1 to the fund.

Brian Sullivan, 38, from Newport, decided to host the fundraiser after finding out that Mr Harrhy’s cancer was terminal.

“I’ve known him for years,” said Mr Sullivan. “We didn’t find out until just before Christmas so it’s been a rush getting everything sorted.

“We thought we have to do something and Robert will be here providing he’s well enough so hopefully it’s a fantastic night for him.”

The event will start at 6.30pm at Riley’s, Newport.

Everyone is welcome and there will also be a disco until 3am.