BRITAIN’S Got Talent semi-finalist Edward Reid and River City actress Leah Macrae have been lined up as guest hosts of a gala event in aid of Morton’s youth academy.

Two of Scotland’s leading showbiz stars are heading to the Kip Marina, pictured, for the Brain Drain Quiz on Saturday 6 June.

Reid shot to fame in 2011 on series five of the ITV talent show after he sang a medley of nursery rhymes to the tune of Snow Patrol’s hit single Run, earning him a standing ovation from the audience and praise from judges David Hasselhoff, Michael McIntyre and Amanda Holden.

The Morton event will be the first half of a double-header for the entertainer, who will also host the sell out Ardgowan Hospice Ladies’ Day on the Sunday.

Edward told the Tele: “I may be a Coatbridge boy at heart but I do like a wee trip doon the watter and can’t wait to head to Inverkip.

It’s going to be a cracking few days in Inverclyde and I am sure everyone will dig deep to support Ardgowan Hospice and Morton’s youth academy.” He will be joined at the glitzy fundraising event by River City actress Leah, who plays care-worker Ellie McLean in the BBC soap.

The Brain Drain Quiz was held for the first time last year in place of the traditional sportsman’s dinner and its popularity has seen it brought back for 2015.

Morton director Crawford Rae expects it to be another success – and has urged fans to snap up tickets quickly.

He said: “Edward and Leah have a huge following and I have no doubt they will help us attract a great crowd.

Tickets are limited, so if you want to see the stars in action then you will have to act fast.” The Brain Drain will take the form of a grand quiz with up to 35 teams competing for a host of great prizes over five rounds of questions on sport, films and other topics.

Mr Rae added: “Under the guidance of Warren Hawke and Derek Anderson, our youth academy has gathered pace and grown significantly over the past few years.

“As a result of their hard work we now have more talented youngsters involved with the club than ever before.

“Our Under-11 and Under-12 teams are progressing well and we are identifying and nurturing more and more players with the potential to make it all the way to the first team.

“All of this good work requires funding and that is why events like the Brain Drain are so important.

“It was a fantastic night last year and I have no doubt our loyal fans will dig deep again to help our young footballing talent shine.” There are 35 tables seating 10 available, with tickets priced at £50 per person or £450 for a table of 10.

To make a booking or enquire about sponsorship opportunities contact Susan Burns on 723571 (ext 27) or email commercial@gmfc.net.