A TEACHER is encouraging people to sign up for a mammoth football tournament to help raise vital funds for a cancer charity.

Dan Webber, 27, who works at Dowdales School in Dalton, has organised Kick Off 4 Cancer, which will see 16 teams competing at Hawcoat Park in Barrow on Friday May 27 in an eight-a-side competition.

The English teacher was inspired to set up a footie fundraiser after seeing through his charity work for Fighting Fitz how the sport can unite people against a common cause.

Mr Webber said: "We did a charity football match against the police earlier this year and it was amazing to see 300 people chanting all around all the pitch, and to make more than £1,000 for charity."

Since that match, he has been working tirelessly to convince celebrities to come to Barrow for a fun-filled afternoon of fundraising.

So far, he has managed to recruit a number of former players and well-known entertainers including Manchester United defender David May, who is set to make up a team of legends, and Britain's Got Talent contestant Paul Manners.

Mr Webber has also been able to secure former Premier League referee Mark Halsey, who underwent chemotherapy to tackle throat cancer, as a special guest for the event.

He said: "The support has been fantastic. None of the footballers want any money or contribution to their transport costs. People are coming to Barrow from all over the country off their own back because of this cause."

Registration for the event opens on Monday and Mr Webber is keen for as many teams as possible to get involved and help raise thousands for Cancer Research.

He added: "It's a rare opportunity to play with ex-league footballers and potentially beat them.

"However, most importantly, it's about raising money and awareness through a kickabout for a great cause."

Each match will last 12 minutes and there will also be stalls and funfair rides to enjoy at the event, which kicks off in May next year.

It costs £120 to enter a team of eight for the competition and you can get involved by contacting Mr Webber on 07562657790 from Monday.