A young rugby fan was given the chance to walk out with his heroes ahead of a crunch game at Twickenham.

Syd Shayler, 13, was handpicked by Harlequins club captain Stephan Lewies to lead their traditional walk from their stadium to the England Rugby ground.

The young fan led the team out from The Stoop ahead of their match against Bath at Twickenham on April 22 and was also given the chance to meet some of the teams’ star players.

Syd, from Horsham, said: “It was a real privilege to be part of the day and have such an important role.

“It’s been more than I could ever imagined and I never thought I’d ever get the chance to be on the pitch at Twickenham and meet the players that I cheer on each week.”

Syd was among a group of young fans selected to take part in the Summer Squad competition where children between seven and 14 took on roles such as interviewing players and commentating on the match.

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Harlequins were unfortunately on the end of a 35-45 defeat to Bath in one of their last games of the current season.

Laura Dalrymple, chief executive of Harlequins, said: “The Big Summer Kick-Off is all about creating a unique experience and atmosphere and our young Summer Squad were instrumental in providing this on Saturday.

The Argus: Harlequins vs Bath at TwickenhamHarlequins vs Bath at Twickenham (Image: PA)

“All of the competition winners were fantastic on the day and it was great to see the huge smiles on their faces as they got to not only meet their heroes but get an unique insight into the different match day roles that most other fans never get to experience.

“It’s safe to say that the club’s backroom staff and media team are in good hands for the future.

“From the ball team to the commentators and matchday reporters, they all played a crucial part in the build-up and delivery on the day which hopefully provided them with memories that will last a lifetime.”