A DEDICATED Southend United FC fan who lost his sight after lifesaving surgery to remove a brain tumour when he was 11, will be meeting Southend United players this Christmas.

Michael Fenn, soon to be 60, from Southend, was suddenly struck with a painful headache on his way back from a holiday with his family, and became unbalanced.

Michael was rushed to hospital where a tumour the size of an orange was discovered on his brain.

His twin sister Carol Hilton, praised her brother for his courage and zest for life and as a life-long supporter of Southend United, wanted to treat him for his birthday, which they share on December 20.

She said: “Sadly, the surgeons had to cut his optic nerve when they removed the tumour which left him blind. I remember it all, it was a scary time, but Michael doesn’t remember much.

“He is an inspiration to us all and has made me who I am today, he never lets anything get him down, always so happy-go-lucky. Michael always used to go to the games from the age of 15, but sadly can’t go so much since he had a hip replacement just over two years ago and he can’t go up the stairs where the visually impaired stand is. I offered him to go in a hot air balloon or be a mascot and he chose to be a mascot. He never complains about anything, he strives to stay as indepedent as possible, although I do visit him every week and he loves to socialise.”

For fans like Michael, Southend United FC has five fixed positions for visually impaired supporters which comes with an assistant or carer if required, and match commentary is provided by the hospital radio service.

Michael will attend Southend’s home game against Rochdale on December 22.