Fans dig deep for mascot's charity

Pictured with his mum Paula and the Scholars squad before being the matchday mascot at the 0-0 draw in the EVO-STIK League Southern's Division One Central, the season ticket holder suffers from the rare PACS1 Syndrome genetic condition and was raising funds and awareness for the Potters Bar Children with Special Needs Group.

After a bucket collection among fans at Parkfield raised £200, the Potters Bar Charity Competition, which runs an annual cup competition with the club to raise funds for good causes, donated a further £300 for the 13-year-old's nominated charity which provides support and advice for families with special needs children as well as days out and special holidays.

A pupil since the age of three at Lakeside School in Welwyn Garden City for children with severe and profound multiple learning difficulties and Autism, the avid supporter is one of only 30 identified cases worldwide of PACS1 Syndrome which affects all aspects of walking, talking, feeding and learning skills.

A Scholars spokesman said: "As Joe has needed help all through his life, the club decided to help him and help others and asked for donations to the charity he supports. It was appreciated that everyone gave him such a warm round of applause and that our players joined in."

Images courtesy Mark Long & Potters Bar Town

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