Marcus Rashford documentary to air on BBC One

The BBC will broadcast a documentary charting England footballer Marcus Rashford’s campaign against child food poverty.

The Manchester United star, 23, has won widespread praise and an MBE for his ongoing efforts to ensure no child goes hungry.

His campaign this month resulted in the Government backtracking to announce free meals would be provided to disadvantaged children over the Christmas holidays.

BBC cameras will follow the sportsman, originally from Manchester, as he tries to better understand the effects of food poverty and how Covid-19 has contributed to the issue.

The hour-long documentary will offer “exclusive insight into the decision-making, thought process and motivations of the England international footballer”, the broadcaster said.

Rashford will also be honoured with a special award at the Sports Personality of the Year ceremony on December 20, after the judging panel unanimously agreed his work off the pitch should be commended.

Clare Sillery, BBC head of commissioning for documentaries, said: “Everyone will be familiar with the Marcus Rashford we see on the pitch but this documentary will offer a deeper insight into the man himself.

“Through our access, we hope viewers will get to see just how passionate and determined he is about tackling child food poverty in Britain today.”

Barbara Slater, director of BBC Sport, said: “Marcus’s endeavour to give a voice to those who find themselves in a situation that he too is familiar with has been greatly admired and the panel wanted to ensure he was recognised for that.

“In a year that has been challenging for everyone, but particularly vulnerable families, he has gone above and beyond to transcend his sport and make a real difference. This award is a tribute to a remarkable young man.”

The project, a joint effort between BBC Sport and BBC Breakfast, will air on BBC One on December 21.