Hearts stars Christos Karipidis and Janos Balogh cemented the Tynecastle club's unique partnership with new 2009-10 Official Charity Partner Erskine by visiting the organisation's Edinburgh home at Gilmerton on Tuesday.

The vice-captain and goalkeeper were on hand to present scarves to residents along with key-rings and tickets for staff, generating a real buzz in the 40-bed home.

Every colleague at the Edinburgh home will receive tickets for a match before the end of this season, starting with the first 25 for this weekend's game against Celtic, which will also be attended by senior Erskine dignitaries.

A club spokesperson said, "It was another poignant visit, with so much talk of Monday's big announcement amongst players, residents, along with the Hearts and Erskine staff.

"We're very proud to be working with Erskine for the 2009-10 season, and in particular we hope our supporters will be able to support a charity who's work is fitting to our own history."

Over the next few weeks the club will be offering supporters the opportunities to meet Erskine staff and serving and former personnel at events during which they can find out more about the partnership - and in particular how they can help.

"The feedback from our key supporter groups has been very positive," the spokesperson continued. "The story of McCrae's Battalion is one of the first that any young fan learns. Now we've got a real opportunity to do something right."

Edinburgh Erskine will open its unique "Pathfinders Wing" in August, offering accommodation for 48 more servicemen and women who will require the support to rebuild their lives after often life-threatening injuries sustained in current conflicts.

heartsfc.co.uk will be the place to follow our year with Erskine in detail, whilst Erskine's own excellent website - www.erskine.org.uk should be bookmarked by all supporters.

Hearts has already commenced fundraising with Erskine, seeking to raise £4,000 towards a Hearts MOTOmed exercise rehabilitation bike - click here to view our leaflet. Supporters are already donating!

Click to visit our new Erskine page on heartsfc.co.uk