Sid Hayes with close friends Will Cave and Sophie Sparrow, who help run the Regent’s Park Youth League, pictured at Arsenal’s former home ground, Highbury [Catherine Etoe]

FAMILY, friends and footballers will come together for a special matchday next month to pay tribute to “the inspirational” Sid Hayes.

Sid, who grew up in Somers Town, was a pioneer of women’s football and played a crucial role in building an Arsenal team that dominated the women’s game under legendary Gunners boss Vic Akers.

He was also instrumental in setting up the Regent’s Park Youth League, encouraging anyone and everyone to play and get involved in the sport that he loved. Sid died in September, aged 82, after a battle with lung cancer. And on Saturday, March 16, the Regent’s Park Youth League will host a series of matches to remember “one of their own”.

The morning will start off with boys’ and girls’ cup finals dedicated to Sid before the grown-ups take to the pitch to play in the Sid Hayes tribute match, which kicks off at 1pm.

Organisers Richard Louch and Will Cave are inviting anyone who knew “the great man” to dust off their football boots and take part in the celebration.

“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 what will be a special day remembering a great man who helped inspire so many men, women and children on their football journey,” said Will.

“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 hoping to kick off at 1pm.

“Sid inspired so many people from Camden and beyond, and this is a chance for everyone to come together to celebrate his life and no doubt share all their great stories and memories of a man who meant so much to so many.

“Sid’s family has hired out the Escape Sports Bar in Mornington Crescent from 4pm so everyone can gather there after the match and continue the celebrations.”

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