A host of celebrities and former professional footballers are set to descend on Swindon this spring for a major charity football match raising funds and awareness for men’s mental health.
The star-studded fixture will take place on Sunday, 3 May 2026 at Swindon Town FC’s home ground, County Ground, bringing together Team M.A.T.E and Team Harvey for what organisers promise will be an entertaining and meaningful afternoon.
The event is organised in support of Men and Their Emotions (M.A.T.E), a charity founded by comedian and actor Daniel O’Reilly, widely known as Dapper Laughs. The organisation was born from O’Reilly’s personal journey through severe drug addiction and suicidal thoughts. Now three years sober, he has become a vocal advocate for breaking down the stigma surrounding men speaking openly about their emotions.
The idea for the match came from local organiser Gary Read following the tragic suicide of Swindon resident Steve Bailey. Described as a devoted family man who had been quietly battling mental health challenges, his death left behind a wife and children. The event will honour his memory and others lost to mental health struggles.
Star-studded line-up
Team M.A.T.E will feature a number of well-known names from television, music and social media.
Among those confirmed are actor Danny Dyer, known for his roles in EastEnders and Rivals, as well as reality series The Dyers’ Caravan Park. He will be joined by influencer Cole Anderson, Mashtag Brady, musician Tom Zanetti, television personality Gaz Beadle, and Daniel O’Reilly himself.
Singer and television personality Olly Murs is also set to attend the event, with further celebrity announcements expected in the coming weeks.
Team Harvey will be captained by MC Harvey of So Solid Crew fame and will include former professional footballers such as Neil Ruddock, widely known as ‘Razor’.
Organisers say the match promises high-energy football and entertainment, while carrying a powerful message about mental health awareness.
Supporting men across the UK
As a registered men’s mental health charity, M.A.T.E provides a safe, non-judgmental environment for men to open up, primarily through its large online community, which has grown to more than 64,000 members on Facebook. The charity also supports men through peer-to-peer networks, free counselling, dry housing initiatives and practical support.
Funds raised through ticket sales, donations and associated fundraising activities will go directly towards expanding these services.
Daniel O’Reilly said:
“This match is about more than football — it’s about showing men that it’s okay to talk, to feel and to ask for help. We’re bringing big names and big energy to Swindon to save lives and smash the stigma.”
Event organiser Gary Read added:
“After losing a close friend to suicide, I’ve seen first-hand how vital groups like M.A.T.E are. Teaming up with Swindon Town and these incredible celebrities will help us reach more men and make a real difference.”
Team line-ups may be subject to change on the day.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, 3 May 2026
Venue: The County Ground, Swindon
Kick-off: 13:00
Tickets are available via Skiddle.
