An 87-year-old lifelong West Ham fan got to see his team play again after his care home organised a trip to see a football match.

Reg Walton was born in East Ham near Upton Park and used to go there to watch his uncle play but moved to the Island when he was 17 to escape the bombs being dropped on his street.

Despite the move, he kept the team loyalty going with his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews all following suit.

When he became a resident at Barton Court care home in New Road, Minster, he spoke about his beloved Hammers and how he would never get to see them again.

Mr Walton has enjoyed going to Oasis Academy Isle of Sheppey to watch the pupils play football.

Elaine Bashford, activities coordinator at the care home, said: “We try to make wishes come true, if possible, so I approached West Ham a number of times before I managed to track down the right person.

“I explained Reg’s connection to the ground and to my surprise and delight they invited Reg and guests to the ground to watch them play against Burnley.

“The day went really well. Reg was collected by iCars who did a very special offer for us.

“Reg had an amazing time, a real dream come true. He was so happy to have seen his team play again, proving age is not a barrier. Where there’s a will there’s a way.

“His daughter said it was the best weekend. Reg is so happy to have had this very special day out.”

After being greeted, Mr Walton was shown around the lounge bar, given a tunnel pass and then brought out onto the pitch.

The players came over to meet him, have a chat and pose for photographs before he and his daughter Maz Ward watched the match in seats right behind the goal. To top it off, West Ham won 1-0.