A BOYHOOD Manchester United fan with learning difficulties has achieved his dream of becoming a match day steward at Old Trafford.

John McDonald, aged 22, from Radcliffe, successfully applied for the job with the help of his local learning disability nurse.

Mr McDonald was referred to the Bury community learning disability service, run by Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, by his GP.

Nurse Mike Hamilton was assigned to work closely with Mr McDonald to understand the issues he was facing and how they affected his health and wellbeing.

As Mike got to know Mr McDonald, he says he recognised that he had strong ambitions, but lacked the skills and confidence to make his dreams a reality.

John has now completed several college qualifications including an NVQ level two in spectator safety and a level two certificate in customer service.

After a job came up with Controlled Solutions Group (CSG), which provides match day stewarding for Manchester United Football Club, Mr McDonald was initially reluctant to apply due to having no job interview experience and a lack of confidence in his ability.

However, after receiving support from Mike, he submitted the application before successfully completed a rigorous multi-stage interview process and a five week training programme.

To support John’s goal of living independently, Mike also arranged for him to move into a local supported housing scheme, and he has recently moved into his own rented accommodation.

John said: “Before I met Mike I was really struggling. There were things I wanted to achieve, but I didn’t know which way to turn.

“I found it difficult that I couldn’t get a job in football and move into my own house straight away. But Mike helped me to see that I needed to go through a process.

“I feel proud to have my own house ­— it’s tough paying the bills but I enjoy it. I’ve been a Manchester United fan since I was little, so my steward job is a dream come true.

“I really enjoy keeping the crowds safe, getting close to the players and seeing them score. Sometimes there is tension between fans, but this motivates me and gives me job satisfaction."

Community learning disability nurse Mike said: “I’m really proud of John and pleased I was able to support and encourage him to achieve his dreams. But his success is really down to his determination not to let anything hold him back."