Former England goalkeeper David James to star in Peterborough Football Festival
Former England goalkeeper David James has been signed up to lead a football celebration in Peterborough ahead of the World Cup.
David James, who won 53 international caps playing for England, will lead the Peterborough Football Festival which will take place in the city centre on June 13.
Visitors can expect football fun for all ages, interactive activities, local makers and creators, community organisations and opportunities to support projects that are making a real difference across Peterborough.
Organisers say the event is a celebration of togetherness, opportunity, sustainability, and community pride, uniting people of all ages and backgrounds through the power of the beautiful game.
It has been organised by green community charity Up The Garden Bath.
The event will also champion Goal2Grow, Up The Garden Bath’s campaign encouraging people to donate unwanted football kits to help fund educational, environmental, and community projects across the region.
"Working alongside Football Rebooted, the initiative is helping tackle waste, reduce financial barriers, and ensure football clothing and equipment reaches people who need it most.
At the centre of the event will be a special mini version of Up The Garden Bath’s award-winning UNITY store in Queensgate, which has helped generate more than £1 million in sales revenue for local artists, makers, crafters, and independent businesses.
Kez HayesPalmer, co-founder of Up The Garden Bath, said: “Having David James involved is hugely special for Peterborough and helps shine a spotlight on the incredible grassroots projects happening here.
"Football has this incredible magic and it brings people together in ways very few things can.
"We want families to come into the city centre and feel something positive.
"We want children to smile, communities to connect, and people to feel proud of where they live.
"This is about more than football. This is about community, creativity, sustainability, and showing what is possible when people come together with heart and purpose.”
The free event is supported by Utilita Energy and Peterborough City Council.
Sam Cook, partnerships marketing manager at Utilita, said: “Football Rebooted is all about giving everyone the chance to play the game they love, no matter their circumstances.
"By working with brilliant community partners like Up The Garden Bath, we’re able to get boots back onto the pitch, reduce waste, and support families who need a little extra help.”