A HIBERNIAN fan was left “overwhelmed” after meeting his sporting heroes as a reward for progress on a course.

Lewis Kerr has been taking part in the Bridge Centre Motorcycle Project and staff at Knox Academy Meadowpark were so impressed with his efforts that they decided to mark his progress.

The 14-year-old was rewarded with a trip to the Hibernian Training Centre at East Mains, near Ormiston.

Despite many members of the Easter Road squad being on international duty, he got more than he bargained for during his visit with Paula Lackie, a school and family support worker at the Haddington school.

He said: “I have been a season ticket holder of Hibernian Football Club since 2016.

“Mrs Lackie took me up to the training centre for a look around.

“We weren’t expecting to see any players as it was the start of the international break.

“We went into the main entrance and we were welcomed by one of the staff members.

'Overwhelmed with excitement'

“He asked me who my favourite player was and I replied: ‘It was Martin Boyle but now that he’s left it is probably Kevin Nisbet or Sylvester Jasper.’

“As Mrs Lackie was talking to the staff member, Kevin Nisbet approached me on a pair of crutches.

“I asked him for a photo and he politely agreed.

“My breathing got quicker in excitement.

“As we were about to leave, we saw Paul McGinn and Kyle Magennis in a black car.

“I approached them and asked if I could take a photo with them.

“I was overwhelmed with excitement and I can’t thank them enough for taking the time to talk and take pictures with me.”

Motorcyle Project

The teenager has been taking part in the Bridge Centre Motorcycle Project 1:1 mentoring programme.

At the same time as learning motorbike skills, Lewis and his mentor focus on personal development, resilience and life skills.

The programme, which takes place over a six-week period where Lewis attends the Poldrate venue every Thursday as part of a certified course, is tailored to Lewis and the personal goals that he has set.

Mrs Lackie told the Courier she had noticed a real difference in Lewis since participating in the programme and wanted to mark his progress.

She said: “Last week, I thought it would be nice to reward his excellent work with a visit to his favourite football team’s training ground.

“This was very ad hoc and we didn’t expect what followed.”