A volunteer at West Ham United was rewarded for his services to football with a visit to Buckingham Palace to see Prince William and even met his boyhood idol.

George Chukwuma, was one of 150 volunteers presented with a commemorative medal by the Duke of Cambridge and Football Association (FA) chairman Greg Dyke, at a celebration of the FA’s 150th anniversary.

The 25-year-old who has worked with the West Ham United Community Sports Trust for seven years spent the day among esteemed company including his hero, former England striker Michael Owen.

George said: “All in all it was a brilliant day.

“The awards ceremony was brilliant, a really special moment for me.

“Just being inside the Palace was amazing and I met Michael Owen.

“I must admit I grew up as a Liverpool fan, so he was someone I grew up watching.”

George also revealed that he received some advice from Hammers’ star Joe Cole on what to do when he met Prince William.

George added: “I said exactly what Joe Cole told me to say, I sent regards on behalf of everyone at West Ham United and the Prince looked pretty happy with that.”