Charity match raises thousands

Buy photos » The game between Redditch United and celebrities. (s)

AN ESTIMATED £6,000 was raised for five good causes as a 1,500 strong crowd turned up to support celebrities and Redditch footballers.

Stars of soaps such as Hollyoaks, Eastenders and Emmerdale played a match against the Redditch United under 21s on Sunday (August 26) to raise money for charities including Primrose Hospice, SADS UK and Summer O’Grady, a little girl with cerebral palsy who needs money to fund a specially adapted pushchair.

The celebrities won their match 6-3 at Valley Stadium, although organiser Aarron Byng said they had given themselves a better chance by having 16 players on the pitch at one point during the game. Ian Beale actor Adam Woodyatt also put on a linesman's shirt to help them score a goal.

Redditch United U12s also got their turn on the pitch, drawing 4-4 with Boldmere Falcons.

Mr Byng added although a final total had not been counted yet, they were expecting to have raised between £6,000 and £7,000.

"People really enjoyed the day and there was a great atmosphere with the celebrities interacting with the crowd.

"The whole point of doing it was to raise money for charity so we are pleased the day went as well as it did and also raised awareness for the Save the Alex campaign as well.

"The celebrities have already asked if they can come back next year and they enjoyed what Redditch had to offer and the support from the crowd."

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