SAINTS hope to welcome back overseas stars Fereti Tuilagi, Julian O'Neill and Kevin Iro when they meet Halifax at The Shay in a pre-season friendly on Sunday, kick-off 3pm.

The trio were expected to return this week after holidaying Down Under. But Anthony Sullivan, Keiron Cunningham and Paul Newlove are still recovering after surgery, while Paul Atcheson is also ruled out after damaging his shoulder at Wigan.

Apollo Perelini (back) and new signing Darrall Trindall face fitness tests, but Saints are confident of a clean bill of health when they face Melbourne Storm at Wigan's JJB Stadium on Saturday, January 22.

Supporter's Club coaches will leave Knowsley Road for Halifax at 1.15pm, fare £7 and £6.

Saints' Supporters' Club will hold their annual meeting at Knowsley Road on Wednesday, January 19, from 7.30pm. Nominations for committee must be submitted by January 12 and be proposed and seconded by an existing member.

Saints will hold a sponsors' evening at Stakis Hotel on Thursday, January 13, from 7.30pm. Admission is by invitation only and corporate businesses wishing to become involved are welcome. Details of a new Friday luncheon club will also be revealed. The pre-season black-tie dinner will also be held at Stakis on Friday, February 4. at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £30. More information on these events from Andy Foreman and Kel Coslett on 23697.

I have a large number of Rugby League newspapers from the 1990s which are offered free to anyone prepared to collect them. Ring me on St. Helens 611861 or 758152.

Looking ahead to the World Club Challenge showdown Wigan Council are urging Saints' fans to avoid the Saddle junction, which is undergoing improvement. As an alternative they are asked to approach the JJB Stadium from the north by leaving the M6 at Junction 27.

Saints are still selling hospitality deals for the game against Melbourne Storm, with all prices exclusive of VAT. Vint Karalius will speak at the World Beater's package in the John Smith lounge. Included are a four-course meal, £25 ticket, programmes and parking. Price is £85, table of ten £850.

The Championship package in the banqueting room costs £65, table of ten £650, and includes three-course meal, £25 seat, programme and parking The Marquee Experience beneath the North Stand is on offer at £25 per head inclusive of three-course meal, programme and entertainment.

Twelve-seater executive box facilities cost £1,000, and incorporate four course meal, programme, private television, video and reserved parking.

Further information from Andy Foreman, Julie Hesketh and Kel Coslett on 23697.

Liverpool Reserves will play Leeds United at Knowsley Road on Monday, January 10, kick-off 7pm.

The postponed Lancashire Cup Final between Haydock and Thatto Heath will be played at Knowsley Road on Wednesday, January 19, kick-off 7.30pm. Admission is £3 and £1.

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