Stars of pitch and screen were in Clacton to kick-off fundraising efforts with a charity football match.
More than 300 people braved the gale force winds to go to the match and funday at the Rush Green Bowl in aid of Reach, which helps children with hand and arm deficiencies.
Arsenal ex-professionals and celebrities faced a hand-picked team including Clacton firefighters and Reach parents, helpers and friends - and the Reach team won by four goals to three.
Marion Knight, of St John's Road, Clacton, organised the day to repay all the help she has received from the charity after her son, now a year old, was born with a hand deficiency.
Mrs Knight said: "It went really well.
"The wind was horrendous but we are grateful the people still came."
More than £3,000 was counted on the day with money still coming in from players and an auction.
Among the stars were former Arsenal professionals Brian Hornsby, Michael Thomas and Danny O'Shea, boxer Terry Marsh and rugby player Martin Offiah.
Published Tuesday October 29, 2002
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