Kentish Express Ashford & District
Harry plays football with England stars
An eight-year-old schoolboy who has cerebral palsy has tasted success as a footballer after taking part in his first ever tournament with other disabled children.
Harry Bailey, from Willesborough, joined other children from Kent to play frame football at England’s base at St George’s Park in Burton-upon-Trent.
The Year 3 Repton Manor pupil played for Kings Hill FC, where he started training six months ago.
He got the chance to meet England under-21 footballers and had his picture taken with Newcastle and England under21 player Isaac Hayden.
Mum Shanie Chisholm said it was a remarkable achievement which has stunned his school mates when he brought back the shield for a school assembly.
She said: “At school most kids won’t play with him because he is not fast enough.
“At this tournament you could see each child has a difficult time playing regular football.
“I can just imagine them sitting on their own at break times.
She said playing football helps keep Harry active and boost his leg muscles which will be good for his health as he gets older.
Ms Chisholm said the experience was a real “eye-opener” to see older children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities taking part in the tournament.
She says she wants to spread the word to others who may want to take up the sport and raise awareness of Kings Hill FC.
Go to www.kingshill.org to find out more.