TWO brothers from Carlisle enjoyed an 'absolutely life changing' experience recently as they visited the Manchester United first-team squad at Carrington.

Two years separate Thomas, 8, and Daniel, 6, who attend Newtown Primary School in Carlisle, a partner school of Manchester United Foundation.

The Foundation aims to provide young people with unique experiences, that can often have a life-changing impact on participants, and in March, Thomas and Daniel were treated to two trips to Manchester.

First, on March 9, they experienced their first ever matchday experience at Old Trafford, watching on as Erik ten Hag's side beat Everton 2-0.

News and Star: Daniel and Thomas outside Old Trafford ahead of the Everton gameDaniel and Thomas outside Old Trafford ahead of the Everton game (Image: Manchester United Foundation)

Mum Kayleigh said: "When we told them they were going to the match, they were absolutely ecstatic. They’ve followed Man United for as long as they’ve been into football.

"We’d been to Old Trafford for a stadium tour last year, but this was the first time they’d been able to attend a match. They both said that the atmosphere was brilliant.

"Everyone at Old Trafford was so helpful with getting us seated and where we needed to be. They had a brilliant day and enjoyed every second; they were absolutely buzzing!"

After their news of the initial Old Trafford visit, one week on, primary delivery officer Adam had another surprise – a trip to Carrington Training Ground, courtesy of Adidas.

News and Star: Daniel alongside Alejandro Garnacho, Victor Lindelof and Rasmus Hojlund Daniel alongside Alejandro Garnacho, Victor Lindelof and Rasmus Hojlund (Image: Manchester United Foundation)

Kayleigh continued: "For the whole week until it actually happened, it didn’t feel real. They lost their heads when Adam told them and were so excited. Thomas was crying his eyes out – with happiness! It was phenomenal, absolutely life changing.

"We had such an intimate experience. As the players were coming out after training, Daniel was shouting the players’ names at the top of his voice. They were all individually greeting us and giving us cuddles, handshakes – we got those special moments with them."

Thomas and Daniel, who lives with cerebral palsy, were chosen for the initial opportunity of watching the Everton fixture by Adam, citing their exceptional attitude, enthusiasm and personalities during sessions.