PARALYMPIC hopeful and The Northern Echo’s Local Hero of 2009, Lyndon Longhorne is to be a football club’s guest of honour on Saturday.

Darlington Football Club manager Steve Staunton has invited the 14-year-old swimmer to The Northern Echo Darlington Arena this weekend after being inspired by his story.

Mr Staunton watched Lyndon pick up the Local Hero award at the ceremony last month and wanted to invite the brave teenager to Darlington’s game with Aldershot Town on Saturday, which is a specially-themed Help for Heroes fixture to commemorate the Armed Forces.

Lyndon lost both his legs and part of an arm to meningitis as a baby, but is now an accomplished swimmer who is hoping to compete in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London.

Lyndon has also won Bravest Child 2009 by Well- Child at the charity’s London awards ceremony, which prompted North-East-based businessman and Dragon’s Den star Duncan Bannatyne to donate £25,000 to the Limbs 4 Lyndon Campaign.

“I’ve been truly inspired by Lyndon’s story,” said Mr Staunton.

“I saw him at The Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards dinner in December and I remember thinking what a brave young man he is.

“He’s certainly a character and he may just prove to be a lucky charm for us on Saturday.”

■ Discounted tickets for members of the Armed Forces and their families are available for Saturday’s game at £5 for adults and £3 for under-16s. They are available from the ground or from 0871-855-1883.