New research from the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) reveals that when it comes to donating money to a charity, the battle between City and United fans ends in a dramatic draw.

57% of supporters from both teams gave money to a charity in the previous twelve months. But the two groups of fans showed different strengths off the pitch when it came to how they give.

When it comes to volunteering for a charity, United supporters come out on top with 16% of them giving up their time for a good cause last year, as opposed to only 13% of City supporters.

United also finish first with regard to giving goods to charity, such as donating unwanted items to a charity shop. 59% of their supporters did so during the last year compared to 50% of City fans.

United fans are also more likely to have bought an ethical product in the last year (28% vs 22% for City), but City supporters score a consolation goal by being likelier to sponsor a friend or loved one for charity (33% vs. 32% for United).

Susan Pinkney, Head of Research at CAF, commented: "Whilst Manchester United fans come out just ahead in our Manchester charity derby, our research shows that both sets of supporters regularly get involved with good causes in a number of ways.

"There are so many ways to help out a charity asides from donating money. Volunteering your time, giving away items you don’t use to a charity shop and sponsoring someone close to you can all have a big impact on a cause close to your heart".