FAMILY and friends will be donning their football boots at Regent’s Park this Saturday for a special match in honour of Sid Hayes – and organisers have reminded anyone who wants to join in that they can just turn up on the day and play.

Sid (pictured), who grew up in Somers Town, was a champion on the sidelines who embraced the women’s game. He played a key role in building an Arsenal team that dominated women’s football under legendary Gunners manager Vic Akers.

He was also instrumental in setting up the Regent’s Park Youth League, so the pitches that surround the Hub were seen as the perfect place to come together for a kickabout this weekend and take part in a celebration to remember Sid, who died in September, aged 82, after a battle with lung cancer.

Sid’s wife of more than 60 years, Miriam, and three daughters, Victoria, Rebecca and Emma, are all expected to be in attendance, and have also hired out the Escape Sports Bar in Mornington Crescent so everyone can gather there after the match and continue sharing their stories and memories of Sid.

Emma, who manages Chelsea, is rumoured to have got a special kit for the match, which is due to kick off at 1pm.

Will Cave, who is organising the game alongside Richard Louch, said: “Whether you can play for two minutes or 90 minutes, or just want to come along and cheer the teams on, come down to Regent’s Park and join in with what will be a special day remembering a great man who helped inspire so many men, women and children on their football journey.

“You don’t need to sign up or anything, just come down to the Hub on the day. If you do want to play, then please try and maybe get there no later than 12.30pm as we’re looking to kick off at 1pm.”

• Anyone wanting to find out more about the Sid Hayes tribute match this Saturday can call Will on 07881 205 351 for details.