CHECK yourself out because cancer can strike at any age is the message behind a charity football match tomorrow.

Liam Greatrex, from Weymouth, was just 21 when he found a lump which, upon a visit to his doctor, was diagnosed as testicular cancer.

He had an operation in July and was given the all clear but in November the cancer had returned. This time, it was in his abdomen, resulting in yet another operation on Christmas Eve.

Now 22, Mr Greatrex is cancer free, and tomorrow he and his family have arranged a football match on Portland, The One Ball Trophy Fete, in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Mr Greatrex’s mother Julie Greatrex said: “We are trying to raise awareness, telling people to check themselves because if Liam hadn’t, he wouldn’t be here now.

“He wouldn’t be here now without Cancer Research.

“People need to be made aware of cancer because you don’t think about it when you're young."

She added: “Liam is doing really well now.

“He has gone back to work and is having regular check ups.”

Mr Greatrex works as a personal trainer for mental health services in the NHS.

Managers Brendon King and Karl Much will oversee sides of Weymouth and Portland former and current players including Ashley Wells, Liam Greatrex’s older brother.

Mrs Greatrex said: “Ashley used to play for Portland FC and they’ve let us have all the facilities for nothing.

“We’ve got a fully licensed bar, face painting, a nail bar, a dance display and a tombola.

“The Leggomen and Peacock Suit will be playing music, as well as another band, The Secrets, and that will go on until 11pm.

“There will be a 47ft bouncy obstacle course as well as a 40ft bouncy disco dome.”

The event is sponsored by GP Metals and Spares, Tom and Erin’s Café, Richmond Ceramics, Bee Cars, Weyline Taxis and the Cove House Inn.

The gates of Portland Football Ground on Grove Road will open at 1pm, with the match kicking off at 2pm.

Bands will start at 5pm, and entry for adults costs £3, free for children under 14, with proceeds going to Cancer Research UK.