Football-mad Millie Downes will celebrate her birthday in style when she leads England on to the pitch for their last friendly before they head off to Portugal.

Football crazy - England mascot Millie Downes, right, with sister Daisy, five Picture: ANNA LUKALA

Excited Millie will travel to the City of Manchester stadium on Saturday. She will watch the players train before getting changed into a new England kit as the team prepares to face Iceland.

The dream task will come just a day after Millie, of Hockley Road, Basildon, turns eight. It is sure to be a birthday she will not forget.

Delighted dad Andy, 40, said: "She is a bit of a tomboy and really loves football, so this is a dream come true.

"She would have watched it on television, but instead she will be on television herself for all her friends to see. It's every schoolkid's dream, but I don't think I would have had the nerve to stand in front of all those people."

Millie won the opportunity through a competition run by the Football Association and England fans.

Published Tuesday June 1, 2004

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