KOTA KINABALU: Guests attending the sold-out 8th United Malaysia Annual Dinner this Saturday (June 27) are advised to arrive early as more than 1,000 people are expected at the event.

Organising chairman Bryan Faurillo said parking at Hakka Hall would be limited and urged attendees to avoid delays by getting there ahead of time.

“Every year this dinner gets bigger because of the passion our members and Manchester United fans bring.

“We’re expecting a large crowd this year, and with limited parking, coming early is the best way to avoid delays,” he said in a statement on Thursday.

Faurillo said early arrivals could also stand a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to Old Trafford through an early-bird raffle draw.

The annual dinner, organised by the country’s official Manchester United supporters’ club, will bring together fans from Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.

At least 10 members will stand a chance to win all-expenses-paid trips to Old Trafford through a series of raffle draws during the event.

The prizes include return flights, accommodation and match tickets to watch Manchester United in action at its home ground, Old Trafford.

Faurillo said the annual dinner had continued to grow over the years because of the support shown by the club’s members and fans.

“We’ve built this dinner around our members and fans. They’re the reason it’s possible.

“We hope everyone comes early and enjoys the evening as we celebrate our shared passion for Manchester United,” he said.