Get ready for a celebrity take over Swindon!… On Sunday 3rd May 2026, Men and Their Emotions (M.A.T.E) charity will be bringing an army of celebrities from stand up comedians to legends of football!
This exciting event aiming to highlight awareness for men’s mental health and of course to raise money for this amazing charity, and you can be part of this rare day for Swindon, where entertainment and football will collide at Swindon Town FC’s County Ground.
Tickets: are available HERE
M.A.T.E Charity founded by comedian and actor Daniel O’Reilly (aka Dapper Laughs) was born out from his own journey of overcoming severe drug addiction and suicidal thoughts. Now three years sober, Daniel has become a passionate advocate for men’s mental health. The charity is actively saving lives by breaking down the stigma surrounding men opening up about their feelings and seeking help.
The event was inspired by local organiser Gary Read, who approached Daniel and M.A.T.E following the tragic suicide of Swindon resident Steve Bailey. Steve was an ordinary working family man quietly battling mental health issues, and his loss left his family without a husband and father.
This exciting sporting event will feature Team M.A.T.E vs Team Harvey, supported by a lineup of celebrities and influencers dedicated to challenging the stigma around men’s emotions and mental health. Confirmed players for Team M.A.T.E include actor and former EastEnders and Dancing on Ice star Matt Lapinskas; actor Tamer Hassan; professional boxer, two-time IBF world champion and 2016 Olympian Joe Cordina; influencer and Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins star Cole Anderson; influencer Mashtag Brady; Geordie Shore star and TV personality Gaz Beadle; Britain’s Got Talent star Sonny Green; and touring comedian, actor, and M.A.T.E charity founder Daniel O’Reilly (Dapper Laughs).
Team Harvey is captained by MC Harvey of So Solid Crew with an exciting lineup of sports stars, including Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock, Jamie O’Hara, Hayden Mullins, Danny Simpson, Leon Britton, Marc Bircham, Tyler D’Cruz, Kevin Betsy, Derek Asamoah, Courtney Massey, Dean Morgan, Chris Dickson, Andy Powell & Jermaine Rico.
Celebrity guests, including chart-topping singer and television personality Olly Murs, will also attend the event.
The match promises high-energy football, celebrity entertainment, and a powerful opportunity for fans to support a life-saving cause!
Organised in partnership with Swindon Town FC, the match honours the memory of Steve Bailey and all those lost to mental health struggles.
As a registered men’s mental health charity, M.A.T.E provides a safe, non-judgmental space through its large online community (now with over 64,000 members on Facebook) and peer-to-peer support. Men can share experiences, seek guidance, and help reduce the tragically high rates of male suicide.
Funds raised from ticket sales, donations, and related activities will directly support the charity’s mission, including providing free counselling, dry housing, and essential support for men in need.
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 lineups may be subject to change on the day.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, 3 May 2026
Venue: The County Ground, Swindon Town FC
Kick-off: 13:00
Tickets: Available now : Click HERE.
Entertainment Swindon 
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