An inspirational 11-year-old from Hitchin is off to Wembley for England vs Scotland at Euro 2020 after being nominated to be a ball carrier at the showpiece clash.

Massive football fan James Firth will attend the eagerly-awaited match at the national stadium in recognition of his unstinting efforts caring for his younger brother, Henry, who has complex learning needs.

James is in Year 6 and attends Whitehill School in Hitchin. He was nominated for the prestigious position by Marshall Volkswagen Letchworth after they heard about the kind help he gives his brother, and for being a passionate Hitchin Town supporter.

Modest James told Hitchin Nub News: "I'm nervous but I'm pretty excited too.

"I didn't tell anyone apart from my two best friends and I had to write a letter to my headteacher to get a day off school. Luckily Mr Mills agreed!"

Loyal Canary James has played for Hitchin Town youth teams since he was seven, starring with 15 goals from the right wing for the U11s last season.

So, when the Fishponds Road outfit heard about his big day at Wembley they handed him another surprise.

Proud mum Kate told Hitchin Nub News: "The lovely people at Top Field gave James a brand new kit to wear," while younger brother Henry added: "James is an amazing brother."

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