Alan Shearer Launches Foundation

Six years ago Alan Shearer used the proceeds from his testimonial to help fund an activity centre to help people with profound disabilities. The Alan Shearer Centre helps children and adults from across the North East, Cumbria and the South of Scotland.

Such is the demand on its services the group which operates it, St Cuthbert's Care, says it wants to expand to other parts of the region.

So today, with the help of celebrity pals And and Dec, who are patrons of St Cuthbert's Care, the former Newcastle United number 9 launched a foundation in his name.

The aim is to raise £250,000 a year to fund new projects. He says it's something that is very close to his heart.

Ant and Dec say they had no hesitation in coming along to today's launch. As patrons they have visited the centre a number of times.

Today they met youngsters who use it and spoke with their families.

But behind the star-studded launch and the celebrity fanfare, the real stars of the show are the people who use this place. To hear their stories watch the full report here: