Barnardo's Milton Keynes Short Breaks user fly the flag for England

Jacob Lawrence, 12 and Keaton Singleton, 11, proudly wore their England shirts and carried the national flag onto the Wembley pitch in front of millions of supporters both at the event and those who were watching on television from around the world.

Football enthusiasts, the boys regularly attend the Milton Keynes Short Breaks service which offers short breaks such as play schemes and after school clubs for children and young people with additional needs.

Jacob and Keaton were offered the once-in-a-lifetime chance by Vauxhall Motors, and after the formalities, they were allowed to watch the match with their families.

Tony Sleight, team manager at Barnardo’s Milton Keynes Short Breaks service, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for Jacob and Keaton and they were so excited to be Flag Bearers. They both deserved to take part and will remember this momentous occasion for a very long time to come”.

Andrew Curley, head of sponsorship and events, Vauxhall Motors said: “At Vauxhall Motors we look to bring people together through our sponsorship of our national football teams. Football is a game which unites people whatever their background and we’re delighted to offer this opportunity to Barnardo’s for each of our nations, who I’m sure will proudly represent the National Football Teams and go home with an experience they’ll never forget.”

For further information on the work of Barnardo’s visit www.barnardos.org.uk