BOLTON Wanderers legends pitched in at Eagley Sports Complex to show their support for the local community.

John McGinlay led out an all star team including David Lee, John Thomas, Tony Kelly, Mark Winstanley, Gavin McCann and Julian Darby to play against local players in a charity tournament at E Fest.

This is the second time John, who still lives in the borough, has led a team out on the pitch at Eagley, to raise money for charity.

He said: “It is just getting bigger and better.

"Everybody enjoys getting together for this event and to support it.

"There is always competition, but we are here to support the good causes and giving back to the community – that’s what it is all about.”

In keeping with the summer spirit, the fun event had a festival feel to it, with live music and plenty of games and refreshments.

The event was first organised last year by Sally Scarbrough, from Sharples, who wanted to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital, where her son Jack, aged seven, is being treated for the rare condition, primary aphakia, which affects his sight.

This year, the charity is supporting the hospital as well as three other causes.

Mrs Scarbrough, said: “Jack has to visit regularly since he was a day old and I made a promise that I would always help to support them in any way I can.

“He used to visit every week and now he visits every three months.

“Last year’s fun day was a great success and we raised £15,000. The weather has stayed good for us again this year like it did last year.

“This year it is bigger with more family games and attractions as well as live music which really adds to the festival feeling of the event.”

The event is also supporting Zak’s Foundation, The Motor Neurone Disease Association and Make a Wish UK.

Mrs Scarbrough added: “The money makes a big difference.

“I know through Jack how the money is spent and the money raised goes to helping people in Bolton, not a penny is wasted. The Make a Wish Foundation is an amazing charity which helps children in Bolton. This has taken six months to organise, but I would hold one every weekend if I could.”

She added: “The footballers are so supportive, I’ve know John for a long time and he will do anything to help.”

The crowds were split between coming for the attractions or to specially for the match between the BWFC Legends and Local Legends.

Ian Campbell, from Astley Bridge, said: “I have brought my wife and grandson.

“I am here for the match, but it is a very good day.”

Debbie Emmerson from Astley Bridge, added: “We are here for the family fun. It is a good turnout and it is a nice event for the family.”

Ryan Dean, from Bromley Cross, was most definitely there for the football – but not to support the legends.

His son Tony, who plays for the Old Bolts, was playing for the other team.

Mr Dean said: “Tony has been looking forward to playing against John McGinlay and I am here supporting my son.”

Paul Berry, who plays for the Old Bolts, found himself playing against the legends and winning an auction to play alongside John last year.

This year, Mr Berry was one of the organisers.

He said: “It was a childhood dream to play on John’s team, once in a lifetime opportunity.

“We still want to win – legends or not, but this is all about the charities and supporting.

“We are playing against footballers who are legends in their own right.”