Kirsty Gallacher has been axed from Soccer aid after a decade as host.
The 45-year-old star was reportedly sacked by bosses as part of a “shake-up” towards a “fresher feel”.
Confirming the sad news Kirsty said: “I’ve loved every minute of my experience on Soccer Aid, it’s been fabulous to work with Dermot, such an amazing team and the amazing players that have kindly given up their time to play.
She added she was proud of what the match had achieved and claimed to have a new project coming up.
“We’ve raised an incredible amount of money over the years but I can confirm I’m stepping down – it feels like the right time after ten years and following a record breaking year in 2020 and excitingly I’ve got a new project that will prevent me from taking part.
“I will take away many fond memories and feel personally proud that in addition to the money raised from the match, myself and Rachel Riley also raised £160k for Unicef on The Chase – a charity that will always remain close to my heart.”
However, a source told The Sun : “Kirsty has absolutely loved being a part of it all.
“Those at the top insist that not asking her back is nothing personal and is just part of a shake-up.
“For them it’s about diversifying and giving the event a fresher feel.
“Kirsty’s sad not to be taking part, of course, but she has a lot of exciting projects coming up.”
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The football match is played by celebrities and former professional footballers and is put on to raise money for the children’s charity Unicef.
Since its launch in 2006 it has raised £38million for the good cause.
Kirsty has hosted the match alongside Dermot O’Leary since 2010.
An ITV spokeswoman said: “Kirsty Gallacher will be stepping down from Soccer Aid ahead of this year’s tournament. Everyone at ITV and Soccer Aid would like to thank her for her ten years with the event and we hope to work with her again in the future.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
