A FOOTBALL tournament in memory of young Wirral cancer victim Elliot Wild is taking place this weekend.

The fifth Claire House Cup kicks off at Wirral Rugby Club today, continuing on Sunday.

Waiting to play are 1,500 children in 156 teams.

Elliot's mum Jackie told the Globe: "We've had an amazing response this year; 1,500 children signed up, so it’s going to be a brilliant weekend.

"We have a waiting list of 50 teams who have been hard to let down, but that is a great testament to how popular this tournament is.

"Fifteen teams have decided to raise their own sponsorship, rather than pay the entry fee, which is brilliant, because it means a lot more money will be raised."

Wirral Globe:

Action from last year's Claire House Cup. Picture: Geoff Davies

Among those taking part are Elliot's brother Finlay and cousins Harry and Oscar.

Organised by JM Sports Coaching and Everton FC and football squads, the event is open to undersixes to under-13s.

Wirral Globe:

Action from last year's Claire House Cup. Picture: Geoff Davies

The event raised £29,120 last year and Elliot's mum Jackie continued: "The day was fantastic.

"The kids were all excited and we saw some fantastic football played.

"It was very emotional, but no better way to remember our special little boy, Elliot.

"Thank you to everyone who took part.

"We are truly grateful."

Wirral Globe:

Action from last year's Claire House Cup. Picture: Geoff Davies

Elliot was first diagnosed with leukaemia in April 2009, after Jackie noticed he had become lethargic.

Once diagnosed, he was quickly operated on.

But after more than a year of remission with regular treatment and check-ups, doctors discovered that the cancer had come back stronger than ever.

Elliot was a keen Liverpool FC supporter and the club took him to their hearts.

Despite setbacks, Elliot fought on and even managed to star in his own LFC TV show at Christmas, putting his own questions to keep- er Pepe Reina during a special edition of SmallTalk.

Elliot's final game at Anfield was as a guest of the club for a match against Manchester United when he visited the Players’ Lounge af- terwards to congratulate his be- loved heroes.