Burton Albion Football Club

A LOCAL man from Swadlincote has received a number of nominations to play in our upcoming celebrity football match at the Pirelli Stadium.

47-year-old, Stuart Bacon from Swadlincote, will get his chance to rub shoulders with a number of well-known celebrities this weekend (Sunday April 29th) after being branded a hero for his efforts during a life-threatening winter period.

Stuart’s selfless hard-work in the local community on several occasions during December and February’s ‘Beast from the East’ period, led to constant pleas on Facebook for rescue, in which Mr Bacon responded instantly.

Using his 4x4, he worked day and night helping endless people who were stranded in cars, took medical staff to work in hospitals and care homes.

He also came to the rescue of a lady who had gone into premature labour (the ambulance was unable to get to her). Fighting through the weather and road closures, he got her and husband to hospital safely.

The baby was later delivered safely at 33 weeks old, with his middle name being given to him after Stuart.

He was also able to help with another medical emergency, taking another lady to hospital for a lifesaving operation, as she was unable to travel in her own car due to the severe weather.

After receiving a call to say that Stuart’s nominations had been successful, his wife Michelle, said: "Stuart will be over the moon with this opportunity. When he heard about the fixture, he was very keen to go and watch, let alone have the chance to play in it.

"All of the rescues were done in his own time and at own expense of giving up paid work to help out the community and using his own fuel.

"Any donations kindly made by the passengers were used to purchase food and he then donated four full trolleys to local food banks for those struggling in local area.

"He is such a selfless man and somewhat a local hero and celebrity now. He will love his moment of fame on the football pitch!"

Matt Hancock, Head of Community, said: "We would like to thank everybody who nominated people, with some really great stories being sent in to us.

"It shows that there are some really great people out there in our community and we are delighted for Mr Bacon to get the chance to receive the recognition he deserves."

For tickets for this Sunday’s game and to see Stuart and the celebrities get their boots on, admission prices will be:

Terrace:

Adults - £10

Under-17s - £5

Seats:

Adults - £15

Under-17s - £8

Car parking is available at £5 per vehicle at the Pirelli Stadium on a first come, first served basis on the day. Hospitality guests will have reserved parking.

The easiest way to buy tickets is online. Alternatively, fans can purchase tickets over the phone (01283 565938) or in person by visiting the club shop during normal opening hours.

Manager Nigel Clough praised the “magnificent” fans who cheered The Brewers on at the Stadium of Light last weekend and the Brewers will need that backing again on Saturday against Bolton Wanderers.

Tickets are on sale now by clicking here, calling 01283 565938 or at the club shop during normal opening hours.