A YOUNG boy was rewarded for his devotion to Winsford United when defender Scott Williams put in a surprise appearance at his birthday party.

Johnathan Simpson, aged seven and from Heaton Square, is a devoted United fan who watches as many of his team's matches as mum Helen lets him and Winsford ace Scott is his football hero.

Johnathan's support even extends to sitting on the touchline sketching pictures of Scott and his exploits on the pitch for the Blues.

However, Johnathan had no idea that his idol would put in an appearance on his special day on November 24, and was suitably amazed when a smiling Scott walked in with a football signed by the entire Winsford United first eleven.

Mum Helen said: "He really was not expecting Scott to walk in - Johnathan was absolutely gobsmacked when the door opened and Scott came through.

Effort

"Although Scott could not stay all that long it was really great of him to come and make the effort to see Johnathan.

"He was on the way home from work and popped in to say thanks to Scott for his support."

She added: "Scott and Tom Shaugnessy are Johnathan's favourite Winsford player - they are the two he talks about the most.

"He has been playing football himself for Winsford Diamonds since the start of the season and he really enjoys it."

Scott, aged 23, said: "Johnathan always comes down to watch the team and his mum Helen works behind the bar at the club.

"He always says hello when I come into the bar and we even started playing pool together.

"He told me it was his birthday and asked if I would be coming - I had to work but managed to get half-an-hour off that Sunday to give him the autographed ball.

"I don't think he actually expected me to come. When I walked in his face lit up - I think he was quite literally dumbstruck."

rfraser@guardiangrp.co.uk