A GROUP of young Burnley fans had a day to remember when Wimbledon made their bow at the National Hockey Stadium in Milton Keynes last weekend.

Pupils from the town's Two Mile Ash School have built up good links with the Clarets through the club's youth in the community programme.

And they welcomed a rare chance to see their heroes in action as Wimbledon entertained Burnley on Saturday.

Sports teacher Michael Lemon said: "Our connection with Burnley Football Club started seven years ago and every year it has grown bigger and bigger.

"Headteacher Jim Hudson has been a lifelong Burnley fan, so when we needed a new kit for the school teams he asked the Clarets and they provided one.

"We began with a couple of trips to watch Burnley and then started to supply mascots for away games. It was like our own supporters club and they were great days out."

Pupils from the school walked out with the teams onto the pitch before kick-off, and several even took part in a friendly shoot-out at half-time.

Since establishing links with Burnley, Two Mile Ash have organised soccer schools during half-terms, supported by the youth in the community team, including Dean Ramsdale and Nick Harrison.

Mr Lemon added: "Over the last two or three years we have also had the chance to take children to Burnley Football Club fgor a residential football trip, playing local sides and local schools along with coaching sessions from Gerry Harrison."

That led to the school's Year Seven squad being invited to Germany as part of the Clarets' Under 13s School of Excellence side.

Mr Lemon continued: "I'd like to thank all those who have supported our journey with Burnley and everyone involved with the club."