Two friends are hoping that 2021 will see the return of their popular charity football match.

The coronavirus pandemic meant the third Frenbot Mansfield Charity Football Match was cancelled in 2020.

But Craig French, catering consultant at Full Circle Employment Agency, Mansfield, and Russell Talbot are determined that the match will go ahead this year.

It will see a Frenbot team take on Once Upon A Smile, a team including TV celebrities, at Forest Town Arena, on Saturday, 26th June.

Among the causes being supported are Once Upon A Smile, a charity that provides opportunities for children to understand and express their emotions during bereavement in a fun and safe environment, and the King’s Mill Toy Appeal.

Once Upon A Smile hope to bring stars from X Factor, Hollyoaks and Emmerdale to the match and there will also be a mini fun fair, food stalls and much more as well as the chance to meet celebrities, while Mansfield 103.2 will be broadcasting live.

The two men — described as ‘two local lads simply trying to make a difference’ — thanked AFC Mansfield FC for allowing the match to take place on its ground.

They are urging local business to help the fundraising by donating prizes for a raffle.

Admission is £3 — £10 for a family ticket for two adults and two children -— and under-3s go free. Gates open at the Arena at 1pm and kick-off is 3pm. There will be free parking.

Raffle tickets priced £1 can be bought on the day. 

For more information and how to get involved, search go to www.facebook.com/Mansfield-Charity-Football-Match-Frenbot-2021-2274045989492158 or email [email protected] or call 07788 192105.