The Football Association of Wales extended a warm welcome on the Tuesday evening before flying out to their World Cup qualifier in Macedonia, to 8 year old Harry Twigg and his family from Portfield Gate near Haverfordwest.
Harry, a pupil at Fenton Community School, underwent a life-saving abdominal operation in early August, resulting in a prolonged stay at the Children's Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. When the FAW heard of Harry's plight they were very supportive as his dad Jonathan is a FAW match official and current Chairman of Pembrokeshire Referees’ Society.
Overwhelming welcome
The warmth of the welcome from the staff, management and players was overwhelming and the humble attitude of superstars like Gareth Bale, the day after his world record transfer to Real Madrid; Ben Davies of Swansea City and Welsh captain Ashley Williams, put a huge smile on Harry's face as he continues to rebuild his strength in the hope of returning to school and resuming his football career with Prendergast Villa AFC.
Jonathan and his wife Suzanne expressed their gratitude to the FAW for what they did to enhance Harry’s road to recovery and especially Ian Gwyn Hughes for organising this special day for Harry.