Five-year-old boy with genetic disorder has fun as Leigh Centurions mascot

Alfie Sales, from Leigh, has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a rare but fatal genetic condition that predominantly affects boys.

The condition, which one in 3,500 boys are believed to suffer from, gradually increases in intensity and causes all muscles in the body to waste away.

Since Alfie’s diagnosis, his parents have launched the campaign Action4Alfie, which calls for research into the condition and raises funds for anything the youngster may need as his condition worsens.

Alfie, centre, with his dad Kieron, mum Louise, sister Mila-Rose and Gregg McNally's wife Rosey

So when top rugby league referee Ben Thaler gave tiny Alfie the match ball at the recent encounter between Leigh and Bradford the little battler, his devoted parents and big sister Mila-Rose were elated.

Dad Kieron Sales, 44, said: “We got in touch with the club to raise awareness and Centurions were a great supporter and said we could go to the next match. (Ben)

"Thaler had a little chat with him beforehand and then we walked in front of 4,000 people.

"He was just amazed and that’s thanks to Thaler’s kindness and Centurions too.

“We partnered with Gregg McNally’s wife Rosey who has AVN ( Avascular necrosis which is a disorder resulting from a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to the bone) and due to the support of the players, Ben Thaler and everyone at the match, we raised £807 in total.

“We will keep doing different things to raise awareness for whatever Alfie needs to live a full life. Please support us at bit.ly/action4alfie.”