SOAP fans who had hoped to catch a glimpse of their Hollyoaks and Emmerdale idols have been left disappointed after a celebrity football match was cancelled.

The fundraising match in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice had been planned for Sunday, August 17, but was called off because of clashes with the filming commitments of the Hollyoaks cast.

In a statement, staff from Acorns called the cancellation “hugely disappointing” and said the hospice had hoped the match would have raised up to £20,000 to support its work with life limited children.

The hospice has promised a full refund to ticket holders but has also asked for supporters to consider donating the cost of the ticket anyway.

The match had been due to take place at at Halesowen Town FC.

More information is available by e-mailing celebrityfootball@acorns.org.uk or calling 01564 82 5092 between 9am and 9pm.