Once a Hitchin lad, always a Hitchin lad!

Despite a star-studded career at the top level with England and Arsenal, humble Jack Wilshere has never forgotten his Hitchin roots.

The former Priory pupil has shown his caring side by reaching out to send a heartfelt message - via Nub News - to brave Hattie Brattan and Hitchin Belles FC who have been fundraising for their pal.

Courageous Hattie, who lives with her sister, Ellie, brother George, mum Helen and dad Paul in our town, was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer of the soft tissue, in 2019.

Moved by her plight and the way her teammates have rallied round Hattie during their charity fundraiser, kind-hearted Jack sent her a personal video message through Hitchin Nub News.

The talented midfielder, currently getting back to his best at Championship side Bournemouth, also promised to return to his hometown to watch this brilliant Belles in action once the Covid pandemic is over.

"Hi guys, Jack Wilshere here," the kind-hearted midfielder with more than 4m Twitter followers said in his video, which is sure to boost spirits of everyone associated with the inspirational group.

He added: "I just wanted to send my best wishes to Hattie and all the Hitchin Belles with the Rainbow of Hope appeal.

"What you girls have been doing is fantastic.

"Hopefully when the pandemic is over I'll be able to come and watch your play - as a Hitchin boy I'll be there supporting you. All the best girls'.

Family and friends have supported Hattie through nine rounds of chemotherapy, as well as proton beam therapy in Manchester, before a year of maintenance chemotherapy.

Hattie, who attends Wilshere Dacre Junior Academy on Fishponds Road, has faced her battle with determination and dignity while being treated at various hospitals including London's Great Ormond Street and Addenbrookes in Cambridge.

Inspired by her fortitude, Belles coach, and family friend of Hattie's, Jeremy Wood, decided to start a fundraiser to help the tenacious youngster.

At the time of writing the efforts have smashed through the incredible amount of £15k.

Not too late to donate!

All funds raised from by Hitchin Belles 'Baku to Bilbao' challenge go to the wider 'Hattie's Rainbow of Hope Appeal' via the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group.

The much-needed cash will go into rhabdomyosarcoma research as well as kinder and more effective treatments for youngsters battling the disease.

Donate here

Hitchin Nub News have supported Hattie's appeal from Day One. Stay tuned for more of our unrivalled coverage of the brave Hitchin youngster and the outstanding efforts from her loyal Belles' teammates.