REVELLERS are being encouraged to dig deep and turn out for a charity football match to raise funds for a little girl who suffers with a rare genetic disorder.

Marion Knight, from Clacton, is organising the event at Clacton FC on Sunday, June 3 where the Arsenal Charity Team will go head to head against Essex Hands United.

This year proceeds from the event will go to three-year-old Iyla Harvey who suffers from Wolf Hirschhorn Syndrome and is unable to walk or talk.

She also has further medical complications including osteoporosis and scoliosis.

In June kick-off is at 1pm but those who attend can expect a jam packed day of activities including inflatables, games, face-painting, temporary tattoos as well as surprise visits from famous faces.

Marion, 54, said she was excited for the day to go ahead.

"We're hoping to get lots of people involved and if we could raise £10,000 that would be fantastic," she said.

"We just need people to come down and help raise money for little Iyla.

"We're not just hoping for some lovely weather and we wants loads of people there.

"There'll also be a few surprise celebrities turning up throughout the day.

"I'm excited now it's getting closer to the time now I'm just trying to get the last bits up and running.

"It's been supported so well locally I'm just getting the final bits done before the big day."

Those who attend can also expect musical performances before and during the game and visits from Disney characters.

After the event the cash raised will be split between little Iyla and the Arsenal Foundation which supports young people in north London.

Iyla's mum, Chloe Harvey, said the youngsters' health is improving and hopefully she can return to Shorefields School in the next few weeks.

The money they receive will go towards creating lasting memories with Iyla and fund vital equipment including a hydrotherapy tub.

"We're so grateful to Marion," the 27-year-old said.

"It's so kind of her I know she's got a disabled son of her own and we feel really lucky that she thought of and chose Iyla."

Tickets for the match cost £6 for adults and £3 for children - concessions and family tickets are also available.

To purchase tickets or for more information head to essexhands.uk.