A huge thank you to everyone who played in, organised and supported the Charity Match at Southport Football Club – you have raised an incredible £48,000 for the 24 Southport families impacted by last summer’s Southport tragedy.
A total of £46,344 was raised through the Southport Together event on Saturday (3rd August 2025), with new Southport FC owners Kieran Malone and David Cunningham donating £1,656.
The day was organised by Southport Hesketh Round Table and Southport FC and hosted a long list of celebrity footballers, boxers, actors, social media stars and more.
There was a special moment when Sergio Aguiar, Dave Stancombe and Aaron Taylor came onto the pitch to play their part in the match.
The event was hosted by In Demand Radio presenter Claire Simmo with special guests including champion boxer Tony Bellew and Mayor of Sefton Cllr June Burns.
The game ended in a thrilling 5–5 draw, with the Blue Team, managed by John Aldridge, claiming victory on penalties against the Gold Team, led by Joe Royle.
Zack Downey from ZED Photography was on hand to take pictures on the day.
A spokesperson said: “Southport FC and The Southport Hesketh Round Table just want to say the biggest thank you to everyone who made the day so special.
“To the incredible Mercedes Vito drivers who helped get players to and from the game, the four amazing coaches who transported guests, and the toilet team who came through for us last minute, thank you.
“To the singers, DJs, and entertainers who lifted the mood, the kit supplier who worked with us under pressure, and the team behind the mobile advert screen who helped spread the word, we’re so grateful.
“To the talented face painters, the celebrities who gave us their time, the chefs, cleaners, 30+ ground staff, stewards, and close protection who all played a part behind the scenes, thank you for your kindness and dedication.
“And to everyone who came, supported, and shared the day with us, we couldn’t have done it without you.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!”
This was more than a football match — it was a powerful day of remembrance, unity, and fundraising. The Round Table has already raised nearly £185,000 through their official GoFundMe and continues to support the families affected.
Much like Soccer Aid, this event featured a star-studded line-up of celebrities, ex-professional footballers, and local legends, all coming together for a meaningful cause.
With live music, food and drink, family-friendly activities, and an electric atmosphere, it provided a memorable day for the whole community.
Match Management Teams
Teams were managed by legends Joe Royle, John Aldridge and Willie Donachie.
- Joe Royle – Everton icon and FA Cup–winning manager. As a player and manager, Royle’s football legacy stretches across multiple decades.
- John Aldridge – Liverpool, Real Sociedad and Tranmere Rovers legend. Aldridge scored over 300 career goals and brings incredible footballing pedigree to the dugout.
- Willie Donachie – Former Scotland international, long-time assistant to Royle, and ex-Southport FC Women manager. A respected coach and leader.
A Star-Studded Line-Up
Like Soccer Aid, this charity match featured a blend of celebrities, ex-professional footballers, and special guests. They included:
- Toni Duggan – Ex-England international with 79 caps. Played for Everton, Man City, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid.
- James Nelson-Joyce – Acclaimed actor (This City Is Ours, Black Mirror) and Soccer Aid participant.
- Paul Dalglish – Former Liverpool, Celtic and Newcastle star who grew up in Southport
- Chelcee Grimes – Singer-songwriter (Dua Lipa, Kylie, Olly Murs), presenter, and ex-footballer for Liverpool, Everton and Spurs
- Liam Smith – Former WBO light-middleweight boxing world champion.
- Gareth Farrelly – Everton star whose goal kept the Blues in the Premier League
- Earl Davis – Won Conference North title twice for Southport FC
- Steve ‘Sid’ Pickford – Ex Southport FC, scored two goals in Notts County FA Cup upset
- Stuart Barlow – Former Everton,Wigan, Oldham and Southport striker
- Jazza Dickens – IBA and WBA super featherweight world champion.
- Stephen Warnock – Football TV pundit and former Liverpool player
- Craig Noone – Warrington Town Manager, played for Cardiff City
- Ryan Lowe – Wigan Athletic Head Coach
- Jose Baxter – ex Everton, became second youngest Premier League debutant
- James Vaughan – Former Everton player, became youngest Premier League goalscorer
- John Welsh – Ex Liverpool, Hull City and Tranmere player
- John Otsemobor – Former Liverpool, Hull City and Tranmere player
- Natasha Dowie – WSL top scorer and FA Cup winner. Played for Everton, Liverpool, and more.Lee Peltier – Former Liverpool defender, most recently at Rotherham United.
- Rickie Lambert – Ex-Southampton and Liverpool striker, with a rise from non-league to Premier League and England honours.
- Dylan Thomas-Smith – BAFTA-nominated actor from ITV’s G’wed and The Gathering.
- Sam Taylor – Comedic content creator and social media personality.
- Neil Danns – Current Southport FC Manager. Ex-Crystal Palace, Bolton and Leicester midfielder, now lacing up his boots for the match.
- Mark Duffy – Assistant Manager at Southport and ex-pro with Sheffield United, ADO Den Haag, and Southport. Returning to play at Haig Avenue.
- Gary Barker – X Factor star
- Philip Shaun Mcguiness – talented actor
- Stuart Cook – futsal legend
- Dave Rogers – Ex Southport FC and Chester City player
- Steve Davies – Runcorn Town striker
Special Guests Attending
- Tony Bellew – Former world champion boxer and Creed star. Although injured, he attended in full support.
This was a day for everyone – families, football fans, and anyone who wanted to stand in solidarity with those impacted.
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: mediaandrewbrown@gmail.com
