A CHARITY football match to boost funds for little Stanley Newman kicks off at FC Clacton this weekend.

The Rush Green Bowl ground is hosting the annual head-to-head between an Arsenal charity team and Essex Hands United.

Cash raised will be split, with 70 per cent going to the Stanley's Heroes charity and the rest to the Arsenal Foundation.

Five-year-old Stanley has muscular dystrophy.

Parents Rob and Laura, are raising £20,000 for a hydrotherapy spa and sensory room for him at their home in Skelmersdale Road, Clacton.

Big names expected on the pitch this Sunday include So Solid Crew's Romeo, Gary Webster of Minder and EastEnders fame, actor Ralph Little and Arsenal's Jimmy Carter and David Hillier.

Seventies Gunner John Matthews will also be meeting fans and signing autographs.

And there will be more excitement off the pitch at the family fun day.

Organisers have arranged for a giant T-Rex to appear for Stanley's birthday gift and a Star Wars stormtrooper will be meeting visitors.

There is also music from The Voice finalist and Essex Hands ambassador Lydia Lucy, Jethro Sheeran and Pauline Henry.

Gates are open from 10.30am to 6pm and the match kicks off at 1pm.

Admission is £6 and £3 for children and concessions (£15 family tickets, under-fives free).