Enter Shikari's Chris Batten is not unlike most rock stars in that he has as much passion for football as he does music.
But this weekend will see the bass and vocalist swap the stage for the pitch as he makes an unexpected debut at the age of 35. It's all for a good cause too, as the musician will be donning the shirt of National League South side St Alban's City for a friendly with Dagenham and Redbridge.
The fixture, being staged on Saturday, April 2, is part of a community day full of events aimed at raising funds for the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. Batten, who will start on the bench in the exhibition game, wrote on Twitter : "The time has come to finally make my professional footballing debut, all in aid of @decappeal.
"Thank you to @stalbanscityfc and @Dag_RedFC for granting me the opportunity to drastically bring the quality of football down. Last week I officially signed for the mighty St Albans City FC. I make my pro debut at the age of 35 on April 2nd 3pm. All in aid of #Ukraine appeal. If you wish to witness my embarrassment you can buy tickets here (link)."
A statement from St Albans said: "More than 18 million people are projected to become affected by the conflict in Ukraine with four million people expected to be displaced, leaving behind their jobs, belongings, and loved ones. At least three million people have already fled their homes to escape the conflict.
"Donations made will help to provide food, water, shelter, healthcare, and protection. Tickets for the game are available to purchase now and will also be available to purchase from the turnstiles on the day. Tickets for the match are priced at £10 adults, £5 under-16s. The adult ticket price includes a £9 donation to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal whilst the under-16 ticket includes a £4.50 donation.
"A virtual ticket is also available to purchase for anyone unable to attend the match but who may want to support the cause. The full amount paid for a virtual ticket will be donated to the appeal." Other members of Enter Shikari, who were formed back in 1999 and are sponsors on the front of St Albans' shirts, will also be in attendance at Clarence Park for the match against the National League Daggers.
The game is hot on the heels of other fundraising efforts undertaken by a range of clubs. Last week saw Colchester United announce that gate receipts from their League Two clash with Forest Green Rovers would be donated to the Ukraine appeal. They have since confirmed that more than £67,000 has so far been raised. Gate receipts accounted for £61,400 whilst the U's have also raised more than £5,800 via a Just Giving page. It will remain open until the end of the season and all money raised by the club will be donated to the Red Cross.
