Portsmouth called to arms to help hit the £1m marker for Blue Day 2016

Since starting the Tom Prince Cancer Trust in 2004 in memory of Pompey fan Tom, his family has raised £989,500.

Now they hope Friday’s event – backed by both The News and Pompey – will finally hit the magical million.

It would mark the culmination of a dream set 10 years ago by Tom’s family.

His parents Adele and Clinton and sister Emma are calling for people to wear blue and help the trust hit the monumental seven-figure sum.

Clinton, of Southsea, said: ‘We’re about £10,500 short – it’s tantalisingly close, it’s literally within touching distance.

‘With one big push we could absolutely be there.’

He added: ‘Thank you is such a small phrase – too small to describe the gratitude in my heart for all those who have helped us.

‘Everyone has just been so amazing. We never believed we would get to this point.’

The money the Tom Prince Cancer Trust raises funds research into osteosarcoma – the bone cancer Tom died of in 2004 on the eve of his 16th birthday.

The first Blue Day was held in April 2008 when Pompey reached the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

There was another one held the day before the final, which Pompey lifted the cup after beating Cardiff 1-0.

Since then, Blue Day has been held every year the day before the club’s last home game of the football season.

It sees hundreds of school children and businesses from across the area dress in blue and hold blue-themed activities.

From blue cakes being sold and blue wigs donned, the day has also seen sandwiches with blue mayonnaise sold and stores kitted out in blue banners and balloons.

Clint added his son would have been stunned by the city’s level of support.

‘It brings a real lump to my throat, I’m so grateful,’ he said.

‘I know that nothing can bring Tom back. But I think he would be very proud of his parents, friends and family.’

This year’s Blue Day is on Friday – the day before Pompey’s final home match of the season against Northampton Town.

It is open to anyone from across the area to take part in.

Those wanting to register can do so online by visiting: tomprince.co.uk