Dreams come true for young Sunderland AFC fan after winning Echo mascot place

The 12-year-old from Plains Farm was the first name out of the hat in our competition to lead the Black Cats out in their clash against Man City on March 5.

It’s proved to be an extra special treat for the youngster who had to have his left arm amputated below the elbow when he was just ten weeks old.

He’s been having complications with his prosthetic arm recently and dad Andy says being mascot has given him something to look forward to.

It’s also Callum’s last chance to be mascot as he turns 13 two days after the match, the age limit for a mascot place.

Andy said: “He’s over the moon and hasn’t sat down since I told him.

“Callum is a massive Sunderland fan and has spent loads of holidays waiting outside the training ground for photos and autographs.”