A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD boy who was denied the chance to play for his local football team as he required glasses has been inundated with messages of support and offers from well-wishers to pay for special sports glasses.

Chase Brown, who attends Ashcombe Primary in Weston, and mum Danielle, spoke to the Mercury last week after a welfare officer from Milton Nomads JFC said Chase could not play with ordinary glasses.

But this week, Keith Eglon kindly came forward with a £125 donation to pay for the glasses.

Banwell under-8s headed a queue of teams who said Chase could play for them, while other would-be fundraisers also came forward.

Andy Hall, Mike Whittaker, John O’Donoghue and Mr Eglon all contacted the Mercury after reading how Chase’s mum Danielle could not afford the glasses, as she had already paid £60 on football kit and a £25 registration fee.

Mum Danielle said: “I can’t believe so many people want to help him out.”

Mr Eglon, who is retired, said: “I don’t see why anybody should be restricted by a setback like that. I felt quite strongly that the boy should be helped. That is why I’m making the donation.”

Lee Loveridge, manager of Weston Crusaders’ age group teams for seven to nine-year-olds, read Chase’s story in the Mercury and immediately said his club would welcome Chase with open arms.

On the Mercury’s Facebook account, another club – Priory Pumas – commented: “Chase is more than welcome at Priory Pumas. Please ask his Mum to message us and we’ll happily look after his all of his footballing needs.”

Danielle confirmed Chase played his first game for new club Banwell at the weekend.