Local hero Lyndon Longhorne will be Darlington's special guest for Saturday's Coca-Cola League Two game at home to Aldershot.

Quakers boss Steve Staunton invited the 14-year-old swimmer to the Northern Echo Arena after being inspired by his story.

Staunton watched Lyndon pick up the Northern Echo Local Hero award in December and wanted to invite the brave teenager to Darlington's game on Saturday, which is a specially-themed 'Help for Heroes' fixture to commemorate the Armed Forces.

Lyndon lost both his legs and part of an arm to meningitis as a baby but is now an accomplished swimmer who is hoping to compete in the 2012 Paralympic Games in London.

As well as winning the Local Hero award last month, Lyndon also won Bravest Child 2009 by WellChild at the charity's London awards ceremony, which prompted North-East-based businessman and Dragon's Den star Duncan Bannatyne to donate £25,000 to the Limbs 4 Lyndon Campaign.

"I've been truly inspired by Lyndon's story," said Staunton, who will welcome Lyndon in to the Darlington dressing room on Saturday before taking up his seat in an executive box.

"I saw him win the Local Hero award at the Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards dinner in December and I remember thinking what a brave young man he is.

"He's certainly a character and he may just prove to be a lucky charm for us on Saturday!"

As part of Saturday's 'Help for Heroes' game, discounted tickets are available for those in the forces and their families, priced just £5 adults and £3 U-16s, while normal match tickets for all games are available for £10 as part of the national 'Tickets for Troops' campaign.

Catterick Village Juniors FC will also form a guard of honour as the players enter the Arena before kick-off.

The discounted tickets for armed forces members and their families are available from the Northern Echo Arena, or call the ticket office on 0871 855 1883.