Dylan Hardingham used to attend home matches with his father before the accident and officials from Chorley FC gave him the VIP treatment when he was made a mascot for Saturday's game against Skelmersdale.

Dylan's auntie, Gillian Whittle, sent a letter in August to the club to help the family to celebrate his birthday.

Gillian said: "Dylan was overwhelmed by the occasion and all the family were happy to be there to support him.

"He enjoyed himself and he was happy to see Chorley win.

"Now has received a season ticket from the club he is now looking to go regularly with his cousin Scott Whittle. It has been a very hard time but he has been a tower of strength and been brave by going to school.

"We want to say thanks to (Chorley director) Geoff Haslam and the club for helping to put a smile on his face."

Craig Hardingham, 46, died in March when his Suzuki 1000 collided with a Peugeot on Parbold Hill, Wigan.

Chorley FC skipper Keiran Fletcher joined Dylan for a picture before the game.

Dylan was presented with a Chorley home shirt, scarf and certificate for being a mascot after the game while general manager of Blackpool Tower, Geoff Sage donated a family ticket for the Tower Christmas Pantomime Aladdin.

The match-day sponsors Zoo Digital Publishing presented Dylan with some complimentary PC games.