Ex-England striker Les Ferdinand is calling on football fans to enter a championship charity draw to advance research into the causes of prostate cancer.

The footballer, who lost his grandad to prostate cancer, is urging Dagenham and Redbridge fans to back the Prostate Cancer UK charity initiative, Road to Wembley, which could win them tickets to the play-off championship finals next May.

Participants will bid for their team by text and be automatically entered into a draw to get VIP seats, including a behind-the-scene tour of Wembley Stadium.

Les, 45, said: “I would urge every Dagenham and Redbridge fan to enter the competition to show their support for their team, for a chance of winning a VIP experience and to help raise funds to fight the most common cancer in men.

“The more people who back their team, the more money will be raised to help Prostate Cancer UK support men with the disease, provide vital information and find answers by funding research into causes and treatments.”

To take part, simply text Fl followed by the name of your favourite Football League team to 82772.

The cost of entry is �3 plus standard network charges. At least half of the �3 fee will be donated to Prostate Cancer UK.

Participants can only win if their team is one of the six Football League Clubs reaching the play-off finals.