FOOTBALL manager Harry Redknapp has officially launched a charity 5-a-side tournament being held in Bournemouth on June 1.

The QPR boss took time out of his coaching duties to visit Lewis-Manning Hospice, based in Lilliput, which will benefit from the 5-A-Side World Cup Tournament, taking place at Pelhams Park, in the summer.

It has been organised by Ryan Woolfenden, owner of independent estate agents, Leader & Co, in Ashley Cross, and is open to people of all ages. Teams will replicate the fixtures of the real World Cup by representing a country drawn out of a hat.

Ryan said: “Having been given a tour of Lewis-Manning not so long ago, I was extremely keen to help, having seen firsthand the excellent care they provide.

He added: “Being an avid football fan and with the World Cup looming, this seemed like a great way of creating a fun day for people to participate in and also raise money for a worthwhile cause.”

Harry Redknapp, who lives in Sandbanks, which is near to the hospice, said that he was pleased to have been asked to help launch the charity 5-a-side football tournament.

He added: “I would encourage any local teams to get involved and give it a go.

“It’s a great opportunity to enjoy some grass-roots football while supporting this worthwhile cause.

“It’s going to be a great day of football for all ages.”

Lewis-Manning Hospice offers free palliative care for over 650 local people living with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses.

Maria Tidy, fundraising manager, said: “We were delighted that Harry Redknapp, who has supported the hospice over the years, was able to take time off from his very hectic end of season schedule to pop in and give us some kind words of encouragement.”

Cost is £50 per team for the event with all proceeds going to Lewis-Manning.

For more information and to enter, email ryan@leaderandco.com or call 01202 721999.