Express & Star

Young Tommy has day to remember at The Hawthorns

Young Tommy Brown had a day to remember at The Hawthorns as he rubbed shoulders with Premier League footballers and TV celebrities.

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The five-year-old was the centre of attention ahead of West Bromwich Albion's clash with Stoke City at the weekend, proud to be Fans' Champion for a second time.

At just five months old Tommy lost both his legs and his right hand following a bout of meningitis, and outside the ground on Sunday fans were asked to donate to help provide him with new prosthetics.

Inside The Hawthorns, Tommy was smiling from ear to ear, particularly as he got to meet his favourite player James Morrison.

James McClean also took the time to pose for pictures with the youngster who won the hearts of Albion fans after first appearing as Fans' Champion earlier this year.

Mascots Baggie Bird and Albi were reacquainted with Tommy and there was even time for a chat with celebrity Albion fans, comedian Frank Skinner and presenter Adrian Chiles.

Sunday's fundraising was organised by season-ticket holder and fundraiser Debbie Green.

She said: "Tommy was just constantly smiling all day and was absolutely loving it.

"We went out to put the ball on the plinth and James Morrison came over and was just great with him.

"He is always asking me how he is doing. It is similar in a way to how Jermain Defoe was with Bradley Lowery.

"Then James McClean came over. He gets a lot of bad press but also took time out to see Tommy.

"Everyone just absolutely loves him."

A fundraising appeal for £20,000 was launched which would fund the new prosthetics five-year-old Tommy will need as he grows up.

It is hoped that money collected at the match will mean they have now reached the target, with Debbie still counting up the donations.