A former Hamilton Accies player and manager is arranging a star-studded new charity football event in support of Alzheimer Scotland, which is being billed as “Scotland’s version of Soccer Aid”.
Stuart Taylor is one of the lead organisers of Shooting Stars, which will see famous faces including Ally McCoist, Frank McAvennie, Graeme Souness, plus celebrities including Still Game star Sanjeev Kohli lining up at Falkirk Stadium on March 2 to raise funds for the good cause.
Now assistant manager at Dundee FC, he headed to Hampden to launch the special event with some of the star names taking part – including his former New Douglas Park teammate, the former Scotland midfielder James McArthur.
Stuart said: “Alzheimer Scotland played a big part in my dad’s journey with dementia before he passed away in 2021. My family and I wanted to give something back to the charity and the game seemed the obvious way to raise funds and raise awareness too.
“Dementia affects everyone from all walks of life and if we can help, in any way we can, then we’ll be a step closer to eradicating this disease – I’d encourage everyone to buy a ticket for what promises to be a unique and fun family fundraising event.”
He played for Accies from 2007-2009, at the end of a 17-year playing career which also included two spells at Lanarkshire neighbours Airdrie, and also served as assistant manager at New Douglas Park at the beginning of his coaching career, later going on to manage the club in 2021-2022.
Still Game star Sanjeev, who played shopkeeper Navid in the BBC sitcom, is taking part in memory of his dad Parduman.
He said: “My dad had been living with Alzheimer’s disease before he died last year. I saw first-hand the debilitating effect this illness can have and know how important it is to support Alzheimer Scotland’s vital work in supporting people who are affected by dementia.
“I also used to play football with Stuart Taylor 40 years ago in a field in Bishopbriggs and thought it was about time we shared a pitch again.”
Accies favourite James McArthur said: “Dementia has affected a number of people in my life, including my best friend Michael McLaughlin whose dad, Patrick, sadly passed away with the disease. I am looking forward to playing in the match for Alzheimer Scotland to raise money and awareness to a cause that affects so many people.”
Joining them at the Hampden launch were Shooting Stars players Frank McAvennie, Marvin Andrews, Mark Hateley and Suzanne Winters – with the former Scotland and Motherwell striker adding: “This cause is incredibly close to my heart as my family has been deeply affected by dementia.”
She added: “Witnessing its impact first-hand has given me a profound understanding of the challenges faced by those living with this illness and their loved ones. Taking part in Shooting Stars for Alzheimer Scotland is about raising awareness and supporting the fight against this devastating illness.”
Organisers are promising “more big sign-ups to come” for the 60-minute match which will be the highlight of a busy family fun day including interactive games, activities, workshops, half-time entertainment and post-match photo opportunities.
Proceeds will support dementia care and research, and Alzheimer Scotland chief executive Henry Simmons said: “Shooting Stars is a brand new event and we’re delighted to have the support of so many famous names from Scottish sport and entertainment, of Falkirk stadium and all our sponsors.
“This event will be a great way to bring communities together and raise vital funds to support people with dementia and their carers, as well as supporting better brain health for everyone in Scotland.”
Tickets cost £5 for adults and under-18s gain free admission; see www.alzscot.org/shootingstars for more information and to book.
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