A City v United soccer challenge to raise money for the bereaved families of New York firefighters has been given the Royal seal of approval.

Both Prince Charles and Prince Andrew have sent messages of support for the Manchester Evening News football legends fundraiser which is being staged following the terrorist attacks on America.

The list of dignitaries and celebrities backing tonight’s event now includes New York Senator Hillary Clinton, Prime Minister Tony Blair, Sir Alex Ferguson, Kevin Keegan, England captain David Beckham and opera singer Russell Watson.

The Duke of York said: “It is right that the world community comes together to assist the dependants of those brave New York firefighters who lost their lives that day.

“In this respect I much admire the initiative taken by the Manchester Evening News in organising this special footballing occasion.”

The challenge will feature a match between legends of Manchester United and City, songs from chart-topping tenor Russell Watson, and another match between the stars of Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Casualty, Brookside and Hollyoaks.

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