The fundraisers, including Dean Gaffney of EastEnders fame and a whole host of Love Island and Married at First Sight contestants, joined forces to boost the coffers of Chestnut Tree House when they did battle at Nyewood Lane in front of a crowd of more than 700 at the event, organised by Sellebrity Soccer UK.

Apprentice star Phil Turner, whose team eventually lost 9-7, helped sponsor the match through his award-winning Turner’s Pies business, and said the day was a huge success.

Phil, who was runner-up on the hit BBC show last year, added: “The work Chestnut Tree House do is simply wonderful and we were chuffed so many supporters come along to enjoy the day and give what they could to help with the financing of the hospice.”

A spokesperson for the charity said the support was very welcome, adding: “Chestnut Tree House is the children’s hospice for Sussex and South East Hampshire. Thanks to support from the local community, children and families who know they don’t have long together have the chance to live life to the full and say goodbye in the way that is right for them.

“The generosity of the local community makes this happen. Almost £6million is needed every year to provide hospice care for local children and their families. Very little of this comes from the government. The rest comes from the amazing donations we receive, fundraising, gifts in wills, shops, the Chestnut Tree House lottery and volunteering.”

Simon Cook, general manager of the football club, said: “We were delighted to host the event and were thrilled that it was a great success. It’s the second year we have hosted and plans are already under way for next year too.”