The Game of History: Scots celebs and football legends to play in Cop26 match

A host of famous faces will join footballing legends, politicians and climate change scientists for a special match during Cop 26.

A Game Of History, at Hamilton’s Fountain of Youth Stadium on November 7, will include Mrs Browns Boys actor Gary Hollywood, lottery winner Jane Park, singer Horse and Labour leader Anas Sarwar.

Also lacing up their boots are Football Daft host Stephen Purdon, Sea Shanty hitmaker Nathan Evans, The Cutkelvins, podcaster James English and Climate scientist Professor Mark Maslin.

The fun eco game aims to raise awareness of the climate crisis during the landmark summit in Glasgow next month.

DJ George Bowie will spin the tunes while fellow radio jock Suzie McGuire will hand out the half time oranges at the big match.

The Scots celebs, with more to be announced in coming days, will join football pros including Derek Ferguson, John Hartson, Frank McAvennie, Charlie Miller, Jose Quitongo, and climate change experts on the pitch.

Cash raised will be donated to Blameless, a charity that helps combat  “eco-anxiety” among young people.

Horse said: “I can’t wait to get my boots on for such a worthwhile cause. I’ve been writing my new album so it’s great to get a run around before we hit the road.”

Shereen Cutkelvin said: “Climate change and making difference in our carbon footprint is something we are practising daily. I’m trying to get better at doing it and it’s little things like cycling instead of always taking the car.”

Nathan Evans, who has just released a book of his own Sea Shanties said: “It’s amazing getting to play football and raise money and awareness for such a worthwhile charity.”

University College London professor Mark Maslin, who wrote book How To Save The Planet and is one of the world’s top climate influencers said: “Football has the power to break down barriers and energise us all in our fight to save the world.  I honestly believe that together we can make this a better, safer, healthier planet.”

Tournament founder Mark Abery, who has hosted UK wide celeb Soccer Six matches with the likes of Robbie Williams, Blur and Oasis since 1995, added: “Scotland is buzzing for COP 26 and so are we. We hope this match goes a long way towards raising awareness and boosts motivation for the everyday football fan to live greener lives.”

Kick off for the first match on Sunday November 7 is at 6pm and tickets starting at just £6 are available here.