THE only way is Burnley for television star Joey Essex who will take part in this year’s Soccer Six tournament at Turf Moor.

The reality star, who made his name on The Only Way Is Essex, will go head-to-head with other celebrities in the 20th Soccer Six Burnley event this year.

Joey, who has also appeared in ITV’s I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here — which was won last year by Blackburn Superbike champion Carl Fogarty — will be joined by The X Factor runner-up and West End star Ray Quinn.

Actor, singer and dancer Ray has also appeared on Dancing On Ice and Brookside since his appearance in the 2006 X Factor competition.

A host of other celebrities are being approached to complete the all-star line-up for the Sunday, May 17 event which will raise money for charities including Burnley FC In The Community.

A Burnley Football Club spokesman said: “We are delighted that Joey has agreed to take part in the Soccer Six event at Turf Moor and look forward to welcoming him. He is the tip of the iceberg in terms of celebrities yet to be announced and we would urge people to purchase tickets as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”

The appearance in Burnley of stars such as Joey has been welcomed by community leaders as they raise the profile of the town.

MP Gordon Birtwistle said: “If Joey Essex is coming to Burnley to add prosperity to the town, then he is more than welcome.”

Bank Hall councillor and former leader of Burnley Council, Julie Cooper, who is due to stand for Labour in the general election in May, said: “Anything that shines a spotlight on Burnley is a good thing.

“As a football fan myself, it is always good to encourage people to support the team in Burnley.”

Soccer Six brings together some of the best talent from music, sport, television and film to take each other on in a series of football matches and gives lucky fans the chance to meet some of their idols.

VIP ticket holders will also be treated to a handful of the players taking to the Soccer Six: Live stage to perform a special gig.

Visit cup.uk.com/buy-tickets to purchase tickets for Soccer Six Burnley.