1 February 2013

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

A TEAM of Arsenal legends is coming to East Grinstead in March to raise money for local charities and celebrate Bob Smith’s 25 years with the town’s football club.

Since joining the Wasps in 1988 Bob has turned out more than 400 times for the team – and broken his leg twice.

​As first-team manager he led Grinstead back into Division One of the Sussex County League in 2002, and the following year the club won their first major honour for nearly 50 years when they lifted the RUR Charity Cup.

In addition to the former Gunners players, it is hoped the charity team will also include familiar names such as EastEnders’ actors Joe Swash and Joe Attwater, Royle Family star Ralf Little and former Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley.

Smith, who is a lifelong Arsenal fan, currently plays for and manages East Grinstead’s third team but says he will be pulling on his boots again to play for the Wasps and, if they agree, the Gunners.

“I am very grateful to the club for allowing me to stage the game and, of course, to the Arsenal legends for coming down to support lots of worthy causes.

“We hope it will be a fun day out for all the family and I’m sure they will see a great game of football.”

The game takes place at the GAC Stadium at East Court on Sunday, March 24.

Kick-off is 2pm and all the proceeds will go to charity, with 30 per cent donated to the Arsenal Foundation and the rest being distributed by East Grinstead Lions to local charities.

Admission is £6 for adults and £3 for children and there will be plenty of other attractions for all the family.

* If you would like to sponsor the game or for information about mascot packages, contact Bob on 07709 154350.