Martin Compston shares emotional diary of trip to Bangladesh for Soccer Aid

SCOTS actor Martin Compston has shared an emotional video diary of his trip to Bangladesh to see Unicef's work with children ahead of this weekend's Soccer Aid.

Compston – who will be one of the co-managers of the World XI on Sunday – went out to the capital of Dhaka to witness what Soccer Aid funds could be used for and, in a behind-the-scenes video, he discussed meeting some of the city's brave street children.

He revealed his shock at seeing the scale of child labour on his first day in the city and spoke of his gratitude for charity workers seeking to change this culture.

He then spent a day with children at the Unicef hub where they were able to take part in activities like writing and drawing.

When he returned from the city, Compston admitted he held is own child a little tighter at the airport.

In his diary, he said: "What those kids have had to go through is unspeakable and its only outdone by their bravery and their ability to keep smiling, and the passion and the kindness of people who are trying to do something about it.

"Child labour is so out in the open, it's just part of the culture. You can't not see it walking down the street. That's quite something to see where I come from but I’ve met some amazing kids there's already people here you’ve [the filming crew] met who are determined to do something about that.

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"When I got back I held my wee one a lot longer than usual at the airport. Every kid should have a safe space to play and I’m really proud to be part of this game. I’ve seen the difference that it makes and long may it continue."

Celtic-fan Compston appeared in the World XI squad last year alongside fellow Line of Duty star Vicky McClure, who was coach for the England team. It was his fourth time playing in the fundraiser.

This year's match, when he will be joining the coaching staff for the first time, will be played at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Watch Soccer Aid for UNICEF 2023 on Sunday, June 11, at 6.30pm, live and exclusively on ITV1, STV and ITVX. Donations can be made ahead of the match at socceraid.org.uk/donate.