STAFF from a Northwich business romped to victory during a celebrity football match.

Employees from MyProtein – part of The Hut Group – went head-to-head against Once Upon a Smile FC at West Didsbury and Charlton FC.

MyProtein staff faced a team of TV personalities and soap stars, including Emmerdale actor Danny Miller, who is the co-founder of Once Upon a Smile.

The dull weather failed to dampen the spirits of the Northwich team as they romped to a 9.1 victory.

Their efforts helped raise £12,000 for Street Soccer Academy, a charity that specialises in the rehabilitation and reintegration of people with complex needs through sports-based education programmes.

Andy Duckworth, chief executive of MyProtein, said: “On behalf of the team at MyProtein I’d like to thank everyone who participated in the Once Upon a Smile charity football match at the weekend.

“We were delighted with the fundraising result and it was great to see so many famous faces out to support such a fantastic cause.

“Street Soccer Academy is a charity close to all our hearts and we look forward to seeing them achieve their goals over the coming months and years.”

MyProtein has supported the charity for a number of years and made it their charity of the year for 2015.

Street Soccer Academy works on behalf of some of the nation’s hardest to reach groups within our communities.

These include people with homeless related issues, ex-offenders, those recovering from addictions, mental health conditions and disabilities and the long-term unemployed.

The funds from the celebrity football match brings the overall total raised this year to £20,215.

Once Upon a Smile aims to support families after the death of a loved one.

The charity was founded by Danny and Daniel Jillings following the death of former Emmerdale producer Gavin Blyth, who left behind his wife and young son.

Danny said: “It was a pleasure to take part in an event for such worthwhile causes, both Street Soccer and Once Upon a Smile.

“Our performance on the day wasn't up to scratch but the organisation was perfect.

“I'd like to thank all those involved and an extended thanks to MyProtein who were worthy winners on the day and a great opposition.

“We do however challenge them, same time next year? Are they brave enough?”