THE lads from Coronation Street, due to play in a charity football match in Darlington, cannot make it because they have another match to go to - Les and Cilla's wedding.

Street soap stars were looking forward to playing in the celebrity game as part of The Northern Echo Soccer Six football tournament.

It was hoped that the likes of Ashley, Tyrone and Kirk would be strutting their stuff at Darlington Football Stadium on Sunday.

But instead, the boys will be rocking and rolling at Les and Cilla's wedding in the Rover's Return.

A Coronation Street spokeswoman told The Northern Echo: "Unfortunately, a lot of the cast have got commitments for filming the build-up to Les and Cilla's wedding this Sunday. In order to get as many presents as possible, the characters have invited most of the Weatherfield residents."

Mick Horswill, a friend of the soap stars, said: "The lads were really looking forward to playing in the game, but they never know when they will be needed for filming next."

Mick, who played for Sunderland when they won the FA Cup in 1973, added: "The lads are really disappointed that they are not playing in the football match, but I'm sure they will have a smashing time at Les's party.

"Apparently, rock band Status Quo is the turn for the night."

But there is still an opportunity for fans to go soap star spotting - actors from Emmerdale, Hollyoaks and Sky One's Dream Team are expected at the tournament, with proceeds going to Sports Aid Northern charity.

Football festival - Page 9