Dust off those bowler hats because the Deepdale Gentry are returning to action at the forthcoming away fixture against Charlton Athletic on 21st March.

Backed by the Club's supporters groups and all involved with CAST, fans are encouraged to wear their bowler hats for the Championship clash in London in tribute and memory to any Preston North End follower who may have passed away in the last 12 months.

The Gentry term was first coined by third division championship winning manager Alan Ball snr in the early 1970s and that inspired a number of PNE fans to don bowler hats to games.

The bowler hats returned in February 2005 at Loftus Road when they were there to witness David Nugent's first ever goal for the Lilywhites. Nugent was later snapped wearing a bowler hat after scoring a goal at Watford's Vicarage Road later that same season.

After the successful CAST Gentry day last season, the Club has a limited supply of free bowler hats which will be handed out on official coaches setting off for Charlton*, however to be sure fans look the part they are advised to invest in their own hat as the Club expects demand to outstrip supply.

Fans can buy tickets for the Charlton game by calling 0844 856 1966.

*While stocks last.