Two East Lancashire celebs have been confirmed as part of the Soccer Aid line-up this year.
Burnley radio star Jordan North is set to make his debut in this year’s Soccer Aid for UNICEF match at the Olympic Stadium in London.
Jordan, a Burnley FC fan, will play alongside social media star and former Bacup primary school pupil Angry Ginge, real name Morgan Burtwistle.
The duo, who were both contestants on I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here, are set to play on Sunday, May 31, as part of the England team taking on the World XI.
Jordan said: “I’m privileged, excited – and slightly terrified – to be making my debut for Soccer Aid for UNICEF on Sunday, May 31.
“I can’t wait for my family to watch me play at the London Stadium. Sharing a pitch with football legends will be up there with Burnley winning promotion to the Premier League.
“Most importantly, money raised will support UNICEF’s work protecting play for children all over the world, and I can’t wait to be a part of it. Please buy your tickets and support this amazing cause.”
Angry Ginge, a former Northern Primary School pupil, will return to Soccer Aid after being named 2025’s player of the match.
He said: “To be named player of the match in Soccer Aid for UNICEF ‘25 at the Theatre of Dreams last year was a dream accomplished, so I’m absolutely ecstatic to return on Sunday, May 31.
“More than anything, this time I want to follow up being king of the Jungle on ITV with an England win at the London Stadium. Make sure you all buy your tickets for the world’s biggest celebrity football match.
“We’re playing for an amazing cause. Soccer Aid raises money for UNICEF and its vital work for children all around the world.”
Backed by more than 60,000 fans, the match marks the 20th anniversary of the world’s biggest celebrity football fundraiser.
The celebrity squads are packed with well-known faces, including UNICEF UK ambassador Tom Hiddleston, musician Olly Murs, comedian Paddy McGuinness, and England football legend Wayne Rooney.
On the opposing World XI team, Usain Bolt will serve as manager, with stars like Big Zuu, Jen Beattie, and Richard Gadd set to appear.
Supporters can look forward to a special extended half-time show celebrating 20 years of Soccer Aid.
Past performers have included Rita Ora, Tom Grennan, and Dermot Kennedy.
Robbie Williams, UNICEF UK ambassador and Soccer Aid co-founder, will manage the England side.
He said: “I’m incredibly proud to be celebrating 20 years of Soccer Aid for UNICEF this year, it’s one of the most important things to me.
“Let’s hope we can break the record again this year. Can’t wait to see you there.”
Soccer Aid has raised more than £121 million for UNICEF since it began in 2006.
This year’s game hopes to add even more to that total, supporting the charity’s work to help children worldwide access clean water, vital vaccinations, or the opportunity to learn.
