DESERVING children are set to enjoy a VIP experience at the upcoming 'legends' charity football match between Stourbridge and West Bromwich Albion.

The game is taking place on Sunday, April 2, at Stourbridge’s War Memorial Ground, but Mary Stevens Hospice is on the hunt for four local children to have an extra special involvement in the day, as a VIP guest and flag-bearer.

The chosen children will lead the teams out onto the pitch carrying the flags of the organisations involved in the match, and have the opportunity to enjoy a unique match-day experience.

Amanda Bowen, the Hagley Road hospice’s community engagement officer, said: “It’s a lovely thing to be able to do.

“The whole day is shaping up to be something completely incredible, and we’d love to be able to give some really deserving children a day they’ll cherish for the rest of their lives.

“Whether the child you’re thinking of has had a rough time of it lately, works really hard in or out of school, or just generally lights up your life, we want to hear about them.”

In order to nominate a child, email Amanda at amanda@mshfundraising.co.uk, containing the name and age of the child, contact information for their parent, guardian or responsible adult and a few paragraphs about why they deserve to be involved in the match.

Nominations must be submitted by midnight on Wednesday, February 15, at the latest, and the four chosen children will be contacted in March after a decision has been made.

The individuals tasked with making the difficult decision will include representatives from West Bromwich Albion, Stourbridge FC, Mary Stevens Hospice, Anthony Nolan and former-Stourbridge player Matt Webb, who organises the charity match to raise funds in memory of his mum, Jane.

The first charity ‘legends’ match between the two sides took place in April last year, where more than £15,000 was raised for the hospice in front of a 2,000-plus crowd at Amblecote.

Stars on the day included Darren “Big Dave” Moore, “Super” Bob Taylor, Dele Adebola, Paul Peschisolido, James Chambers and a host of other names who enjoyed long and successful professional careers in English football.

The 2017 match will see the teams reignite the rivalry when they play for the Jane Webb Memorial Trophy, while the hospice will also be running a big family fun day before the game, with gates opening at noon.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, and under-16's get in for free but must be accompanied by at least one adult to enter the ground.

For more information about the event, visit www.marystevenshospice.co.uk/event/charity-football-match-2017