Anton's one in a million for city team; SPORT: Traders TV star kits out young footballers.

Byline: Gregg Evans

A MILLIONAIRE television star hasdipped into his pockets to help support a young Birmingham football team.

Anton Kreil, who starred in Million Dollar Traders, is backing Beacon Colts Under 9s after meeting assistant manager Paul O'Reilly on the BBC2 series earlier this year.

The retired trader has pledged over pounds 400 to buy two kits for the Great Barr-based side who currently sit in eighth position in the Lichfield & District A League. "Sponsoring Beacon Colts is an absolute privilege," said the 30-year-old.

"Sunday league football is something I believe in passionately. It gives the kids a crucial discipline when they are growing up and keeps them fit, active and motivated. It's important for the kids to have a quality kit.

"It used to give me extra motivation on the pitchwhen I played as a kid and it's the same for the kids of Beacon Colts."

On the TV show, screened in January, multi-millionaire Lex Van Dam gave eight novices 1million dollars of his money to trade on the stock exchange.

With his experience in the industry, Anton was drafted in to manage the office, mentor the team and monitor the risks.

Paul, who was one of the 12 original contestants on the show, thanked Anton for the kind gesture.

"It's absolutely brilliant what he has done for our teambecause the kids love their new kit," he said. The kit is sponsored by Anton's new business - Hablib.com

CAPTION(S):

Winning team: Anton Kreil, who appeared in Million Dollar Traders, with Beacon Colts under-nines.