SOAP stars swapped acting for the wicket in a bid to raise cash for a North Yorkshire hospice.

Emmerdale actors including Chris Chittell, who plays Eric Pollard in the long-running drama, and Patrick Mower (Rodney), were among those who turned out at Malton and Old Malton Cricket Club for the charity match.

They were helping to raise money for the St Catherine's Hospice New Build Appeal. The hospice, in Scarborough, serves the Malton area.

The match featuring an Malton and Old Malton XI versus an Emmerdale XI was the highlight of a fun-packed family day including balloon races, face-painting, a tombola and an under-13's friendly match.

Meanwhile, a massive model car racing set was one of the highlights of a festival to celebrate the Porsche at Castle Howard, near Malton, which also raised money for the appeal.

Porsche In The Park, which ended today, gave motor enthusiasts a rare opportunity to check out a huge selection of models of the famous Italian cars.

Children's entertainment, helicopter rides and remote-controlled Porsche races all added to the fun.

Updated: 10:14 Monday, May 26, 2003