Sonny’s derby-day surprise

Nine-year-old Sunderland super fan Sonny Nunn received a big surprise during a school assembly this week, and it’s one he’s still struggling to believe.

The St Mary’s RC Primary pupil, a lifelong Black Cats supporter, was picked to be one of the mascots for this weekend’s Wear–Tyne derby as part of the Together Through Sport campaign. 

Despite being football-mad, he hasn’t been able to get to a match at the Stadium of Light this season, so stepping onto the pitch for the biggest game of the year feels like a dream come true.

He’ll run out alongside the players, wearing a special Together Through Sport t-shirt, proudly representing a campaign that’s all about giving every young person the chance to take part, feel included and be inspired.

The youngster is also feeling confident ahead of the clash, predicting a red and white victory!

The experience is part of a region-wide effort to highlight the importance of sport in children’s lives.

With 1 in 4 kids missing out on sport because families simply can’t afford it, Together Through Sport aims to break down those barriers and make sure no young person is left watching from the sidelines.

Find out more on the Together Through Sport initiative

Foundation of Light is teaming up with organisations across the region, including Newcastle United Foundation, Durham Cricket Foundation, Eagles Community Foundation, Newcastle Rugby Foundation, North East Sport and North East Housing Partnership, to work together to break down barriers so no child is left on the sidelines.

How you can help

Supporters can help make a difference by texting TOGETHERFIVE to 70085 to donate £5 or by visiting the campaign page on JustGiving https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/sport