A loving brother got an early Christmas treat this week when two of his Everton heroes surprised him midway through a school carol rehearsal.
Nine-year-old Thomas and his classmates were left stunned when Jordan Pickford and James Tarkowski - and Sky Sports cameras - interrupted their festive singing to tell the youngster he had been nominated for a special reward.
Thomas, from Southport, acts as a young carer for his autistic brother Harry, seven, helping him at home and supporting him with social interactions inside and outside of school that he finds a challenge.
Shock swept through the room when Everton manager Sean Dyche appeared on a projector screen with a message to say the Club had heard about Thomas' efforts to make life easier for Harry and that he'd sent some special guests to say hello.
Cue Pickford and Tarkowski arriving at the school hall doors, armed with bags of gifts for Thomas and Harry, and selection boxes for all their friends.
Thomas was put forward for the surprise by Claire Hilbert, a teacher at Southport’s Marshside Primary School, which is part of Everton's School Supporters' Club initiative.
She said: "I nominated Thomas because he is a huge Everton fan and would quite happily spend all day, every day talking everything Everton with me in class! We often spend break and lunchtimes prior to games planning our squad lists and predicting scores. He lives and breathes Everton but, more importantly, he is an incredibly caring and compassionate big brother to Harry.
"He helps make things a little less scary for Harry, he checks in on him at playtimes, and will often leave playing football with his friends to make sure Harry is OK - a true testament to how much he cares for him, because football is everything to Thomas!"
After tearing through the pile of gifts with help from Harry, Thomas took Pickford and Tarkowski back to his classroom where they joined in making Christmas cards with the pupils.
The players also had one final surprise for the two siblings - inviting them to attend a Goodison Park matchday of their choice as guests of the squad.
England No.1 Pickford said: "Thomas seems to be a great character and quite confident as well. He’s just a loving brother and he's great with Harry with all the help he gives him. He puts his brother and his family first and it's just great to see.
“But I think the whole class enjoyed today and it's nice that we can do that. Everton always plays a big part in the community and we're happy to come and spend time with the kids. It’s been brilliant."
Tarkowski added: "It was amazing - you could see the shock on Thomas’ face when we first walked in. For me, this is what Christmas is all about - going and putting smiles on kids' faces - and this was a great chance for us to come and give a nice afternoon to someone who loves Everton and who truly deserves it."
The story of Thomas and Harry’s surprise was told on Sky Sports in the build-up to Saturday’s Premier League fixtures, including Everton's trip to Burnley (5.30pm GMT). You can watch the video above or by clicking here.
