A LIFELONG football supporter from Sale has been given an early Christmas present.

William Jakeman, 98, a resident of New Care Ashlands Manor Care Centre, was treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour at Old Trafford.

William, who had visited the Theatre of Dreams many times, watching games in Stretford End and enjoying corporate hospitality had not been back in a decade before staff at the centre told him about his surprise trip to the stadium.

William said: “I was a little bewildered when I heard, but I guess I am one of Manchester United’s oldest supporters! I used to love going to Old Trafford to watch the matches, being with the masses, and was over the moon to be back in Stretford End. That was amazing!

“The whole day was just great; being chauffeur driven and arriving in style to the VIP tour of the stadium and receiving my personalised shirt.

“I have supported Manchester United for such a long time. Although I don’t actually watch the matches on TV anymore, I do keep up with the results on Match of the Day. Plus, all of my family are Reds, so we are constantly chatting on Whats App and commenting on the players’ performances and discussing tactics.”

Dominic Kay, chairman of New Care, said: “William has always been and still is a passionate supporter of Manchester United. Having not been to Old Trafford for a while we wanted to take him there and enjoy this memorable experience alongside him.

“It was a pleasure for me to see William back in the Stretford End, making his way down the wing after all these years.”