The Zesh Rehman Foundation is going from strength to strength at home and abroad.

After its humble beginnings in a Bradford primary school, his charity continues to branch out across the country and well beyond.

More than 20 Bradford schools are involved under the watchful eye of Samir Butt while plans are afoot to keep expanding.

Rehman said: “The Foundation is now on the verge of working with Liverpool, Oldham, Crystal Palace, Bolton and my old clubs Fulham and QPR around social inclusion, community cohesion and football development.

“We are delivering Lottery-funded programmes as well as working closely with the Home Office with projects about alcohol and drugs.

“On a larger scale we have forged an international link in Thailand and the wheels are in motion for programmes in Japan, Beijing and Pakistan.

“It all started with Hill Top Primary School in Bradford in 2010. I cannot thank deputy head Fiona Nolan enough for her efforts in the early stages – she is a gem.

“Hopefully the Foundation can continue to impact children’s lives in a positive manner.”