A GWENT Assembly Member is hoping to lead Wales to glory in the footballing Battle of Britain.

Newport East's John Griffiths will forget party loyalty when he captains the Assembly team in the Parliamentary Shield tournament in Cardiff on Saturday.

Teams from the House of Commons, Scottish Parliament and Northern Ireland Assembly will compete for the trophy at Cardiff City's training ground, Leckwith Park.

Mr Griffiths thinks the Assembly may have an edge, particularly if Wales coach Mark Hughes makes a guest appearance.

Assistant Wales coach Eric Harrison is managing the Assembly team, with Lawrie McMenemy in charge of the MPs, Kenny Dalglish looking after the Scots and Geoff Hurst for Northern Ireland.

While getting in some last- minute practice, Mr Griffiths told the Argus: "Last year we played against the House of Commons in a very tough two-all draw. We decided to expand it this year in order to raise money for the charity Truce."

Truce uses sport to promote reconciliation and communication between hostile groups in the world's trouble spots.

Fast-food chain McDonald's will hand over £5,000 to the charity on the day. "We think it's a really good cause and we thought that this tournament would be a good way to support it," Mr Griffiths said.

Not that Mr Griffiths is expecting a peaceful time on the pitch. "The ref had trouble keeping order when we played last year, party differences were forgotten and I think I've still got some bruises from Labour MPs."

Although built more like Welsh winger Ryan Giggs, Mr Griffiths sees himself in the Roy Keane, midfield- powerhouse mould. The lifelong Newport County fan said: "I try to act as the engine-room of the side, getting forward and back when I'm needed."

Kick-off is at 2.30pm and members of the public are invited to come to show their support.