TV chef looks forward to playing in celebrity football match for St Catherine’s this weekend

Celebrity chef Dean Edwards will not only fulfill a childhood dream as he plays football with ex-pro legends and fellow TV stars this weekend – he’ll also be helping to raise money and awareness for St Catherine’s Hospice.

Dean, who is currently the resident chef on ITV’s Lorraine, is taking part in The Charity Football Match at Chorley Football Club on Sunday.

“I played in a similar charity football match a couple of years ago and loved it,” he said. “The organiser, Tony Cartwright, asked if I wanted to do this one too for St Catherine’s, and I jumped at the chance.

“It was fantastic last time – such a great atmosphere, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

Dean, who lives in Bristol with his wife and daughter, joked: “I sometimes feel I missed my calling as a footballer – that was my other dream!

“To be given the opportunity to play with ex-pros – my heroes who I grew up supporting – is a massive honour.

“It’s a great day for all the family, and the players take time to speak with the supporters. I’d really urge people to come along.”

Other members of the ‘All Stars’ team include Hollyoaks actors, the soap’s fitness coach Maziar David Ajtar, Britain’s Got Talent dancer George Sampson, and Hollywood stunt actor Martin Pemberton, from Eccleston, who has worked on Game of Thrones, Batman Begins, Guardians of the Galaxy, The Mummy, and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Playing for the ‘Legends’ side are former Preston North End favourites Paul McKenna, Lee Cartwright, Brett Ormerod (who also played for Blackpool), and Mark Patterson (who also played for Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, and Bolton Wanderers), along with Jody Craddock who played for Wolverhampton Wanderers, Andy Bell from Blackburn Rovers, Craig Armstrong from Nottingham Forest, and Scott Murray and Lewis Carey, both of Bristol City.

Wigan Athletic Chief Executive Jonathan Jackson, Phil Entwistle and Neil Crowe from Bamber Bridge, and former Chorley FC legend Kenny Mayer are also on board.

Dean said: “It’s such an amazing occasion and is raising money for a fantastic cause.

“My family have had experiences with hospices so we know how they offer care and support not just to that one person, but to those close to them.

“I wouldn’t find it an easy job to do, and I don’t think families would cope without that support. Hospices keep families together at a very difficult time.”

Kick-off is at 3pm at Victory Park, Duke Street, this Sunday. Tickets are £5 on the gate.

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