Martin O’Neill, Nigel Clough and Kevin Keegan are among a list of football legends and celebrities confirmed to appear at an all-star charity match to raise money for Treetops Hospice.

The fundraising event, taking place at Basford United on Sunday June 27, has been organised by former Nottingham Forest forward Garry Birtles and his wife Samantha, who was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer two years ago.

As a way of expressing their gratitude for the essential care and support provided by the local hospice, Garry and Samantha hope the star-studded game will generate awareness and money.

“Raising money for the Treetops charity has been restricted during the pandemic. Samantha and I know first-hand how important their services are; we’d love to see as much money raised as possible,” said Birtles.

Close friend and work colleague Sally Pembleton set up a Just Giving donation page in early March, and the amount raised nears the £9,000 mark – at the time of publication – against an initial £500 target, with the figure still expected to rise in the coming months as popularity increases.

Since the fundraiser began, the football community has come together to support the cause. Gareth Southgate, John Terry and Harry Kane are among the players – past and present – to donate signed shirts.

Manchester clubs City and United have also provided memorabilia for auction as have Everton and Forest, where Garry made 280 appearances over two spells, famously winning consecutive European Cups under Brian Clough.

Proceeds will go straight to the Treetops Hospice, helping to fund a wide range of services for individuals and families affected by life-limiting illness or bereavement. Cheryl Morris, the hospice’s community relationships manager, has been overwhelmed by the generosity.

“Thank you so much to Garry Birtles’ football friends. You are amazing! We simply could not provide the vital care we do – to those who need it the most – without wonderful people like you,” she said.

It is hoped that up to 1,200 fans will be able to attend the charity match at Greenwich Avenue, where Garry’s Legends XI will include many Forest greats from over the years, with John Robertson, Andy Reid and Mark Crossley among the names to lace up their boots.

Chris Cohen, Gary Mills and current Basford boss Steve Chettle are also set to take to the field, led by O’Neill and Clough, against a Marlon Harewood and Matty Turner Celebrity XI that will be managed by Liverpool and England icon Kevin Keegan.

Nottingham-born and BT Sport commentator Darren Fletcher will be providing on-the-day questions and coverage.

Tickets for the Samantha Birtles Trophy fixture are currently sold out, but more will become available at a later time and can be purchased via Basford United’s online shop.

United Chairman and Owner Chris Munroe is proud to be a part of the special occasion and cannot wait for the legends to roll back the years, saying: “We will do our utmost to provide an excellent venue for what will be a brilliant day and support Samantha’s wish to raise funds for the Treetops Hospice.

“We ask that you pledge your support by purchasing your tickets via our club shop, and we hope to welcome everyone to Greenwich Avenue next month,” he said.

*Article provided by Marc Williams (Basford United Correspondent).

*Main image @NFFC Garry Birtles back in his playing days for Nottingham Forest.