Fans were supporting a very worthy cause when the Bobby Moore Championship five-a-side tournament at the Boleyn Ground this coming Monday.
In all, eight teams were battling it out to win the trophy presented by Bobby's widow Stephanie Moore in an event that also has the backing of former England manager Terry Venables. Regional heats were initially played on 18 May with 102 teams taking part across the country. The finals will run until 2pm at the stadium with entry free via Gate 3 in the Dr Martens Stand but those attending will have the chance to make a donation if they wish.
This is just one of many high-profile events staged for the charity, which was set up in 1993 after Bobby's untimely death from bowel cancer. As well as the valuable work it does, it also helps keep alive the memory of one of English football's greatest sons who served the club to distinction between 1958 and 1974. West Ham United were proud to support the good cause as one of two club charities throughout the 2007/08 season including a special fundraising day for the Newcastle United home game in April.
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble, like the club legend a homegrown talent, said: "Bobby Moore stands for exactly what this club represents: how to play football the proper way. I think he is an icon and a role model for all young professionals wanting to achieve the highest honour in football, captaining your country to winning the World Cup." Manager Alan Curbishley added: "After what he achieved for club and country it is only right that someone of his stature is remembered the way he still is today."