HAMPSHIRE Premier League side Stockbridge FC will mark the 25th anniversary of the opening of their recreation ground with a match against an AFC Bournemouth XI on Sunday.

The match, against a strong youth team kicking off at 3pm, will be the highlight of a day of celebration starting at midday which is also set to include a match between a select 1978 Stockbridge side and the current 2nd XI as well as a hog roast, prize draw, tug-of-war, golf chipping, children's entertainment and other football matches.

Stockbridge chairman Dave Webb said: "The inaugural match on 27 August 1978 was against an ex-Saints XI and 25 years on we face the south coast's potential stars of the future. We expect huge local support both from the town itself and around the county.

"Stockbridge is a club with a big family tradition and local businesses, organisations and individuals continue to support our cause with their contributions to Sunday's family fun day out at the recreation ground.

"The highlight, of course, is the match against AFC Bournemouth, and we hope to be able to continue to show improved performance on the field of play."

Bournemouth's youth team manager Joe Roach added: "It is always a pleasure to bring in AFC Bournemouth XI to help promote the development of up and coming local non-league clubs. Stockbridge FC has a fine set-up and we expect a warm reception from the players and supporters.

"We look forward to Stockbridge providing us with a competitive workout in our pre-season preparations."

In the 25 years since Stockbridge first played at the recreation ground, the club has made remarkable progress and was elected to the Premier Division of the Hampshire League in 1999. Fundraising efforts saw floodlights installed in 2001 and Stockbridge finished ninth in the Hampshire Premier League last season.

AFC Bournemouth's under 17s and under 19s play in the Youth Alliance and Merit League. They reached round two of the FA Youth Cup last season.

Entrance on Sunday is £1 and free for children. A souvenir programme is also available.

Additional activities on Sunday include a licensed bar, free bouncy castle and free face painting.

Local organisations and individuals are invited to run a stall or boot table free charge and should contact Dave or Jill on 01264 810819.