Lucas lines up at Wembley

Reporter: Gillian Potts
Date published: 31 May 2017


IT was momentous enough to be leading his home team on to the pitch at Wembley for a nail-biting play-off final.

But for mascot and Chadderton Park Cerebral Palsy team player, Lucas Town, to see namesake Huddersfield Town AFC beat Reading for a coveted place in the Premier League was beyond the 10-year-old's wildest dreams.

Lucas - who also has the honour of having a Yelloway Coach named after him thanks to the company's sponsor ties with the CP team - was chosen to be the Terriers' mascot for their memorable match on Monday which saw them promoted to the top flight for the first time in 45 years.

Massive
But mum, Gail, told the Chronicle it was touch and go whether he'd make it after having a fall and injuring his head last week, putting his mascot dreams in doubt.

She said it made the occasion mean so much to Lucas and all the family.

"Lucas was chosen to be a mascot on the day by the club and especially as he had a massive fall in his standing frame at school and having to have his head cleaned and glued and being so brave.

"Plus I think it's our ace surname that made it so special for him to be Huddersfield's mascot!

"He did all of Huddersfield proud and we are indebted to both Huddersfield and the English Football League for letting Lucas be a mascot at such a very special occasion and also letting Lucas walk onto the Wembley pitch in his walking frame."

Craig Simpson, secretary of Chadderton Park Sports Club, said: "Everyone at the club is delighted that Huddersfield Town selected Lucas to be their team mascot.

"What an amazing day for Lucas and his family.

"Seeing a Chaddy Park player take part in such an important fixture is brilliant.

"Lucas will keep those treasured memories for ever and its equally nice for the club and for the inclusion and global awareness of cerebral palsy."