Manchester United star Diogo Dalot has helped serve food to homeless people at a shelter in the city.
The Portuguese defender, a £19m signing from Porto, turned up unannounced with his partner at Lifeshare, a charity for the homeless in the city centre, and surprised visitors with clothing and food donations.
They then rolled up their sleeves and handed out hot meals to more than 100 people at the charity on Christmas Eve.
Dalot, 25, said: “I have lived in Manchester for over six years now and I am proud to call this city my home.
“Unfortunately, homelessness is increasing; as a family we want to raise awareness and also help people directly wherever we can.
'We've teamed up with Lifeshare, an amazing charity that does so much to help vulnerable people.
'The volunteers I met here today are truly inspiring, they are true heroes and it has been a pleasure to get to know their dedication.
'I'm very grateful to have been able to spend time with them and play a small part in helping to deliver such vital work for the people they support.'
Jahan Hussain, trustee at Lifeshare, said: 'After a very difficult year, which even saw Lifeshare close during its 40th anniversary, this support is literally life-saving.
'Not so long ago we didn't know whether our much-needed Christmas project would be able to go ahead, so to receive a visit from someone with such a high profile is fantastic.
'Diogo and his wife were brilliant and stuck with it – it was a real mood booster for everyone. We rely on donations and the goodwill of the people of Manchester, so we are truly grateful for all the support that has made this week possible.”
Lifeshare is hosting its annual Christmas Project, a week-long event that will see the charity open its doors from 7am to 7pm, yesterday (Monday) to Friday, to anyone in need of shelter, food and companionship, no questions asked to set.
In addition to food, guests receive hot showers and clean, dry clothes and shoes.
Lifeshare also coordinates other services, such as hairdressers, vets and opticians, who are on hand to provide people in need with haircuts, shaves, pet care and eye care during the Christmas project.
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