Ipswich Town 10-year-old superfan meets McKenna and the team

Gracie Baldry, who is receiving care from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices, had a day to remember after meeting manager Kieran McKenna and his Blues squad.

She went with her parents James and Kim and 15-year-old brother Liam to the club’s training base in Playford Road on Thursday.

Gracie Baldry with dad James and brother Liam (Image: EACH) After watching the players being put through their paces, the family spent time with the Town boss and club captain Sam Morsy.

The family then joined the squad for lunch and the club presented Grace and Liam with a Town shirt.

Liam Baldry meets Ali Al-Hamadi (left) and Omari Hutchinson (Image: EACH)

“As a family, we’re huge Town fans so it was a special and unique experience to spend time at the training ground,” said James.

“Kieran and his players were absolutely first-class – all coming over to say hi and spend time with us – and we were so grateful for an amazing opportunity.”

Liam Baldry meets Town manager Kieran McKenna (Image: EACH) Gracie has right-side hemiplegia cerebral palsy, as well as epilepsy, global development delay, hearing loss and the gene mutation V Factor Leiden.

She and her family have been receiving care and support for EACH for five years, at The Treehouse.

Gracie was Town’s mascot for a 3-0 victory against Shrewsbury Town at Portman Road in August 2019.

The family will be in attendance at the Blues game on Saturday, where EACH is the dedicated charity partner.

Town chairman Mark Ashton said: “We are proud to have such a strong relationship with EACH, which provides incredible support to young people and their families in extremely tough circumstances.

“To have the opportunity to raise awareness and vital funds at our dedicated matchday is a privilege for us all and we hope supporters are able to contribute to such an important cause.”