Liverpool footballer Steven Gerrard has been named a founding partner of Alder Hey Children's Charity, the highest honour available, after donating £500k with the Steven Gerrard Foundation.

The money was raised during his testimonial match in August when the team and fans gathered to pay their respects to the footballer, who commented 'I've visited Alder Hey on many occasions, and whilst the children and their families are going through such difficult times, you can also see how much work goes into making it as comfortable as possible for them. The children are the inspiration and will always continue to be, even with helping in the design of the new hospital, that's what makes it so special'.