A celebrity football featuring TV soap and reality stars raised more than £4,000 for two local charities.
As previously reported, the Sellebrity Soccer match drew in hundreds of spectators at the Avenue Stadium in Dorchester over the summer.
The match was raising funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and the Lexi May Trust and was organised by locals Kelly Park and Graham Butler. They have revealed that £4,6830.80 was raised following the day’s festivities.
Mrs Park, who often raises money for the CF Trust, said: “There was a real feel-good factor around and such a good atmosphere for everyone involved on the day. A massive thank you to everyone that came along and showed their support.
“The money will be split between the two projects, and go into research projects for the charity as well as more of the good work that they do.
“My husband and I have some great ideas for next year on how to support the trust.”
Mr Butler said: “There are so many people to thank. Specifically, we are grateful to all the celebs and everyone at Sellebrity Soccer for bringing the game back to Dorchester for us.
“Being able to split nearly £5,000 between the 2 charities is a great feeling and justifies why we do these things.”
The game finished 6-3 to the blue team, with Love Island's Billy Brown scoring twice on the day and forcing a save with a shot from the halfway line.
EastEnders star Ricky Groves, who played Gary Hobbs for nine years, was host on the day, interacting with the audience throughout the contest, whilst the likes of Love Island's Josh Brocklebank as well as the Apprentice’s Matt Turner took to the pitch in the thrilling contest. Dorchester Town star Harry Redknapp Jr also featured, along with Mr Butler.
Last year, the game raised £15k for Tommy’s Charity, and Mr Butler gave his thoughts on why attendance was lower this year. He said: “For various reasons, The Euros, Glastonbury, etc the crowd was a little lower than 2023, but it was still an entertaining day for everyone that attended.”
Mr Butler added: “We are keeping our options open, for 2025, but discussions are underway again. Watch this space."
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