‘Real buzz’ as Dundee hosts STV Children’s Appeal Show, says Street Soccer Scotland chief

The chief executive of Street Soccer Scotland has spoken of the “real buzz” around their Dundee centre hosting a national TV fundraiser.

David Duke told The Courier how Street Soccer Scotland’s Dundee branch, based at the Change Centre, was delighted to welcome the STV Children’s Appeal Show, which is being screened on the evening of Friday November 4.

“It was great to welcome some of the charities supported by the appeal,” he said.

“There was a real buzz around the place and hopefully the appeal show can raise plenty of funds and awareness to make sure that children and young people have a better chance in life.”

Celebrity hosts

STV Children’s Appeal Show is hosted by stars Lorraine Kelly – herself an honorary Dundonian – and Sanjeev Kohli.

The programme will include an exclusive musical performance from Nina Nesbitt and actor Martin Compston will show off his football prowess.

The show will also see STV’s Sean Batty and Laura Boyd take on a tuktuk challenge, travelling from Oban to Dundee in the tiny vehicle.

The annual show will include the stories of fundraising efforts across the country over the past year.

Money raised will help support hundreds of thousands of children affected by poverty across Scotland.

Documentary “Scotland’s Stories: Let’s Talk About Trauma” also airs on November 4 at 7pm.

This half-hour special highlights the story of presenter Aidan Martin who struggled with childhood trauma and follows his journey from addict to activist and author.

Charity work

The documentary spotlights the work of charities Aberlour in Falkirk, Motherwell-based The Miracle Foundation, and the Trust Project in West Lothian College.

Lorraine Kelly, trustee of the STV Children’s Appeal said: “I can confidently say that this year’s STV Children’s Appeal show is like no other.

“I had the best time hosting the show alongside Sanjeev in Dundee, a city that is close to my heart. You can expect to feel inspired, learn more about some wonderful charities and watch some heart-warming exchanges.

“You may even witness some top-class football skills on full display!”

What is Street Soccer Scotland?

Street Soccer provide free football-themed training & personal development opportunities for socially disadvantaged groups across Scotland.

The initiative was founded in 2009 by David Duke, who was homeless in Glasgow and got involved with football when he saw a poster for the Homeless World Cup team in his hostel.

Street Soccer now has 2,000 players aged between 16 and 61 registered in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen.

It has operated in Dundee since 2010 and is now based at the former Lynch Leisure Centre.

When to see the fundraiser

The STV Children’s Appeal 2022 airs on STV at 9pm on Friday November 4.

A full interview with David Duke, CEO of Street Soccer Scotland, will appear in a future edition of The Courier’s Weekend magazine.