THE FA People’s Cup returns to Bournemouth later this month with teams hoping to plot their path to Wembley Stadium.

Entry is free for the inclusive five-a-side tournament, which is the nation’s largest small sided football competition for amateur players of all ages and abilities

Teams are in with a chance of playing at St. George’s Park in the finals and lifting their winner’s trophy on the pitch at Wembley during the Emirates FA Cup Final in May.

Players must register for the competition by the 18th February in order to take part. The competition welcomes both teams and individuals – meaning you don’t need to be part of an existing five-a-side team to participate.

The 18 categories provide opportunities for male, female and disability players ranging from U14s through to veterans (over-35s). Venues in Bournemouth that are hosting tournaments include PlayFootball at Littledown and Pelhams and Bournemouth University on February 24 and February 25.

Les Howie, head of grassroots football for The FA, said: “The FA People’s Cup is extremely important to grassroots football in this country, providing a fantastic opportunity for people to play the game we all love. With 18 categories welcoming a truly diverse set of entrants, this competition really is for all and with the added appeal of a final at St. George’s Park, 2018’s tournament is set to be the best yet”.

Last year’s event saw a record number of 45,000 players and 6,000 teams take part.

Registration for fourth instalment of The FA People’s Cup closes on Sunday, February 18.

Teams and individuals are able to enter the tournament by visiting www.TheFA.com/FAPeoplesCup where they can find more details on the competition and how to sign up.