MORE than £14.5 million has been raised for an international humanitarian charity after a star-studded Soccer Aid match last night - with a little help from a local lad.

Greenock's Martin Compston helped coach the World XI side to a fifth consecutive victory over an England select in the annual fundraising game.

The Line of Duty actor joined new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino on the touchline at a packed Old Trafford as more than 63,000 fans watched on in Manchester.

While Sunday's contest finished 4-2 to the rest of the world team, extending their overall lead to seven wins compared to England's five since the inaugural 2006 match, the real win came from the total raised for UNICEF to support its work providing vital aid to children worldwide.

Compston’s half-time film focused on his trip to Bangladesh where he saw how UNICEF is helping unaccompanied children living on the streets.

He visited a UNICEF-supported child protection hub which provides a safe space for children to sleep, eat, learn and most important of all – play.

The money raised through Soccer Aid for UNICEF could help the organisation fight malnutrition, keep children safe in times of crisis, and get them back to school, ensuring every child has a chance to play.

It could also help provide vaccines against preventable diseases such as polio.

Robbie Williams, Soccer Aid for UNICEF co-founder and UNICEF UK Ambassador, said: “It’s been another incredible year with a star-studded lineup taking to the pitch all in the name of raising as much money as we can for children around the world.

"Since 2006, we have been so proud to put this event on and I’m so grateful to everyone who has laced up their boots and especially to those of you who have donated.

"Your money will help UNICEF ensure many children get the best start in life and the chance to simply be kids and play.”

Greenock Telegraph: Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium hosted the matchManchester United's Old Trafford stadium hosted the match (Image: UNICEF/Soccer Aid)

The squads featured new and returning players, including: Sir Mo Farah, Paddy McGuiness, Alex Brooker, Lee Mack, Liam Payne, Tom Hiddleston, Tom Grennan, Steven Bartlett, Mo Gilligan, Sam Claflin, Danny Dyer, Chunkz, Bugzy Malone, Joel Corry, Asa Butterfield, Leon Edwards, Kem Cetinay, Noah Beck, Niko Omilana and Tommy Fury.

They were joined by football legends David James, Gary Neville, Gary Cahill, Paul Scholes, Jack Wilshere, Jermain Defoe, Ben Foster, Patrice Evra, Roberto Carlos, Francesco Totti, Nani and Hernan Crespo.