“The whole town has come together to make this happen, to keep Lee’s memory alive.”

Those are some of the kind words being said with footballing legends set to play in Bury tomorrow, Saturday, for a special match marking the 10th anniversary of the death of Lee Rigby, a soldier from Crumpsall who was murdered in London.

Event organiser Liam Howarth said it feels surreal how one idea has been into a reality and he looks forward to seeing everyone at the event.

Football stars coming to Gigg Lane for Lee Rigby Memorial Cup

He said: “It’s about keeping Lee's memory alive and what the Lee Rigby Foundation do for bereaved families and veterans is amazing and why I hold this charity very close to my heart.

“I had the idea for a match at Gigg Lane for the 10-year anniversary and I spoke to Lyn, Lee's mum, to hear what she thought of the idea.

“She said 'yes' as the last charity event we did for the foundation at the two tubs was a success but I wanted to do more and felt this needed to be bigger.”

Liam contacted Jamie Murray at Gigg Lane and he and his team “have bent over backwards” to make the idea into a reality.

He said: “It is still a bit surreal, to be honest.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the people who I’ve worked with for the last year to arrange this there are too many to mention but I must say a huge thanks to Gary Nicholl from Blueheart 1872 for the time and effort he’s put in for the superstar line up.”

Kick-off between a "North West superstars" team and a Rangers select XI side will be at 3pm and tickets for the player's lounge, pre-kick-off, are £50 and will allow fans in from 12pm.

This includes a meet with the players and main stand premium seating.  

Tickets to the match are £15 per adult, children £6 and family tickets £35. 

Speaking with the Bury Times in February, Lee's mum Lyn Rigby said: “I'm excited, it’s a local match and we're happy that we can mark Lee’s 10th anniversary this way, it's something to look forward to.  

“It will be sad, as it always is around that time of year but it is something to celebrate in memory of Lee's life.

 “I just want to thank everyone for working so hard and I hope we get a great turnout to carry Lee’s legacy on and continue to help others with the foundation.”  

If you have a story tweet @BuryTimes or @Heywoodharriet_ or email Harriet.Heywood@newsquest.co.uk.