A YOUNG girl from Andover had an unforgettable experience walking out with England defender Kyle Walker before the Euro 2020 match against Denmark in Frankfurt, Germany.
Connie May Templeton, six, had the unique opportunity after her mum's aunt, Jane Tingey, won a Euro competition at Lidl supermarket, which included an all-expenses-paid trip to Frankfurt for the match.
She went along with another aunt, Susan Kreie, who shared details of the incredible opportunity.
Susan told the Advertiser that the prize was originally for Jane, but she did not have a passport, so she had to give it to someone else.
(Image: Newsquest) READ MORE: England doing a lot of penalty preparation at Euro 2024
Connie May was the only child in their family who had a passport and was within the required age range of six to 10.
"We travelled to Frankfurt the day before the match and stayed in an amazing hotel for two nights, before coming home," Susan said.
"It was all expenses paid from Lidl. We didn't want for anything! When the kids went to the stadium in the morning for rehearsals etc. Lidl treated the parents and guardians to a city tour."
Susan expressed her gratitude to Lidl for organising such a fantastic competition and providing Connie May with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"Lidl's ladies were amazing, especially two named Sarah and Olivia, who were with us every step of the way," Susan said.
"From the first meet at Heathrow, back to Heathrow when we got home. It was such an experience and certainly one that Connie will never forget. Her whole family are just so proud that she got the opportunity to do this, as we all know how rare this opportunity is."
(Image: Newsquest) SEE ALSO: 'Pressing family matter' sees Phil Foden leave England's Euro 2024 base
The highlight of the trip, of course, was the chance to walk out with the England players. Connie May was paired with Kyle Walker, creating a memory that will last a lifetime for the young Andover resident.
"I had never been to a stadium and I’m not the biggest football fan, but the atmosphere was absolutely amazing," Susan added.
"It was a great experience for me as well as Connie May who walked out with Kyle Walker."
In total 11 families from the UK enjoyed the once-in-a-lifetime experience. The group also interacted with families from Denmark, making the entire trip an enjoyable and unforgettable cultural exchange.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here