There are two normally unscheduled matches to be played at The Optima this week, first a celebrity charity match on Wednesday and then a testimonial match to honour one of Weston AFC’s longest serving members of staff Bob Flaskett follows on Saturday.

The celebrity charity comes in partnership with Sellebrity Soccer and is being done to raise money for local charity The Liam Shepherd Foundation, a non-profit organisation that uses its funds to help other groups or charities in memory of Liam Shepherd, a Weston Academy youth player who passed away in 2021.

Ricky Groves, best known for playing Gary Hobbs on Eastenders, will be one of the many celebrities featuring in the game, and he looks forward to the event.

He said: “The last time I was in Weston super mare was in 2011 on the pier as a judge for Miss UK, but this time I’m looking forward to seeing where the seagulls hone their skills.

“As with all Sellebrity Soccer matches the importance of raising awareness as well as funds is at the heart off our principles.

“So come on down for some great football and a great day out.”

The memorial match for legendary groundskeeper Bob Flaskett will take place on Saturday 27th to honour over 20 years of work for the football club.

The match will feature a host of familiar faces for Seagulls fans as Weston’s 2005-06 Legends, a team full of ex-players, take on Flash’s Legends at The Optima Stadium, kick off 4pm.