THE cult of celebrity came together with footballers to raise more than £200,000 for charity.

Players who make up the Manchester United team were in attendance at 15th annual United for UNICEF gala dinner, to help raise a record £210,000.

The celebrities attending included Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor, Countdown’s Rachel Riley and Emmerdale actor Chris Bisson, with indie rock band The Enemy headlining

It is claimed that the partnership between the soccer club and UNICEF has helped to improve the lives of over 3.4 million deprived children worldwide.

The cash raised at this year's soiree, will help fund UNICEF’s work protecting vulnerable children in Vietnam from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Current manager Louis van Gaal said: “It does not surprise me that Manchester United is part of such a significant charity partnership and one

that has impacted on the lives of so many children throughout the world.

"Our work with UNICEF is something this club can be very proud of and I was honoured to join the players at tonight’s 15 year anniversary event.”

Club captain Wayne Rooney added, “Any player who signs for this club soon realises how important UNICEF is to Manchester United. I’ve been attending the gala dinner for ten years now and it’s always a great evening that raises a lot of money for UNICEF.

“Like myself, most of the players here tonight have young families so it’s very moving to learn about the UNICEF project in Vietnam and the awful circumstances so many children have to face.”

UNICEF's deputy executive director for fundraising Catherine Cottrell added: “ Thanks to the continued support we’ve received from the club and its fans we’ve been able to transform the lives of millions of children.

All the money raised through tonight’s gala dinner will help us protect children in Vietnam who are living their lives in danger of abuse, neglect and exploitation."