Soccer star David Beckham has been appointed UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Wednesday, UN News Service reported.

ADVERTISEMENT

In his new capacity, the British midfielder is expected to do a 30 second public service announcement to help raise funds to support humanitarian aid relief for the 1.5 million children affected by the tsunami disaster.

"It is one of the proudest moments of my life to be given the role of UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and I hope to play a part in supporting these children at their time of need," Beckham said.

UNICEF Executive Director Carol Bellamy was "absolutely delighted" to hear that Beckham was chosen for the position.

"The global TV appeal he has recorded will be enormously useful to help UNICEF meet the immediate survival needs of children affected by the tsunami in the short term and in the weeks and months ahead as they rebuild their lives," Bellamy said.