Britain’s biggest single fundraising event in aid of the firefighters of New York is to take place courtesy of the Manchester Evening News.

The newspaper is hosting a special charity challenge match between Manchester City and United legends at the MEN Arena on Friday, October 19.

Sir Alex Ferguson and Kevin Keegan have agreed to manage the two teams in the hour-long contest.

So far Bryan Robson, Frank Stapleton, Paul McGrath, Brian McClair, Norman Whiteside, Viv Anderson, Steve Bruce, Gary Pallister and Sammy McIllroy have been lined up to play for Fergie’s United team.

City will boast Nicky Reid, Paul Power, Paul Stewart, Wayne Biggins, Andy May and Neil McNab, plus more Maine Road favourites.

Former Premiership referee Steven Lodge will take charge of the Soccer Challenge.

The legends match will be the showpiece of a night’s entertainment aimed at all the family, which will also include dancing girls and a celebrity match between rival television soap stars with the likes of Coronation Street’s Michael le Vell expected to turn out.

Profits from car parking and from food and drink sold on the night will go directly to the fund.

Manchester Evening News editor Paul Horrocks said: ”This is an opportunity for the region to express its grief and support the families of those who were killed.

”We have been inundated with support – and we are glad to be able to help in some way.”

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