A boy who recovered from blood poisoning met Chelsea player Frank Lampard at a football game yesterday.

George Gillings, 12, who spent Christmas under sedation at Great Ormond Street Hospital, was given the chance to meet his idol thanks to charity Rays of Sunshine.

The Hertswood School pupil suffered septicaemia after an operation to treat his Crohn’s disease last December.

George, who has a Blue Peter badge for bravery, watched the Chelsea v Newcastle game at Stamford Bridge yesterday, before meeting the midfielder at full-time.

Before meeting the international football star, George said: “I think this is going to be one of the most exciting days ever.”