A PORTLAND fundraiser will step out on to the hallowed turf of Hillsborough for a special charity football match.

Graham Butler, 34, has supported Sheffield Wednesday for decades and will finally get the chance to play for his beloved side as part of the FA(ke) Cup on Sunday, September 4.

The match will feature former Wednesday players, including England legend Chris Waddle and former Republic of Ireland international John Sheridan.

Graham was selected from thousands of applicants to play in the match as recognition for his fundraising efforts over the years.

He has organised events in aid of charities including the NSPCC and Help for Heroes, raising more than £5,000 for the former with a variety of football-based initiatives.

He ran the 2015 London Marathon in support of The Lullaby Trust and was able to raise £9,000 for the charity, with the help of Wednesday player Kieran Lee, who donated one of his match-worn shirts for auction.

Graham said: "I have been a huge Sheffield Wednesday fan since the early 90s and to be given the opportunity to line up alongside Chris Waddle, who was a big factor in me becoming an Owls fan, is one I could not pass up.

"I never thought for one minute I would be chosen, but to play at the home stadium of the team you support is a dream come true for any football fan.

"We will be issued with the full current strip worn by the team, which we will get to keep as a memento of the day."

As part of his selection to play in the match, Graham must raise £500 in less than a month.

He has selected a pair of Sheffield-based charities - St Luke's Hospice and The Rotherham Hospice Trust.

The fundraiser who is able to collect the most donations prior to the match will be invited to a home game free of charge and will have the opportunity to meet their favourite player.

Graham added: "I would really appreciate any donation, no matter how small.

"Even £1 is enough to help the charities in their day-to-day work and to also try to help me achieve my fundraising goal too."

To donate to Graham's fundraising efforts, visit virginmoneygiving.com/GrahamButler