Dorset youngster lives the Wembley Dream

A young football fan from Dorset won a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent the England football team as a mascot, thanks to a partnership between Action for Children and The FA.

Jodie Casserley,10, whose family is supported by Action for Children's Poole Children in Care Council in Bournemouth, was entered into a draw along with other youngsters from across the charity.

The footie enthusiast was chosen as the winning entry to attend the match against Ukraine on September 11.

Jodie said: "I was so excited about the match, I could hardly believe it. I couldn't wait to get out on the pitch and make my family and the team proud. Action for Children has been really important to us and I want to say a big thank you to our support workers there and to The FA for making my dream come true."

Action for Children's Senior Corporate Fundraiser Yvonne Martin said: "It's great to be able to provide such a wonderful experience for Jodie thanks to our partnership with The FA. It will surely be an occasion she will never forget."

Action for Children is one of four charity partners benefitting from a direct association with The FA.

An FA Spokesman said "The FA is very proud of our partnerships with all of our charities and especially the impact that being a mascot at Wembley Stadium can have on young people throughout England."

For more information on The FA's Charity Programme, please go to www.thefa.com/charities