A YOUNG Largs Thistle fan with a debilitating illness had a day to remember - after his hero handed him his cup final jersey.

James Roberston, 14, who has Asperger Syndrome and cerebellar ataxia, was over the moon after being picked out the crowd by midfielder Mark Millar.

His mum Kaye today thanked the Thistle star and told how his big-hearted gesture had made her son's day.

She said: "James is a super fan and goes to almost all of the matches. To receive the cup final jersey from Mark was amazing.

"I also want to thank Hamilton Accies, who helped arranged a ticket to allow James entry and allowed his support worker to accompany him for free.

"James was in the disabled area behind the goal and Mark spotted him after the game, went over to have a chat and shook his hand.

"He apologised saying, 'Sorry we didn't win today' but James said that there was nothing to be sorry about as Largs had gone on an amazing cup adventure that nobody will ever forget.

"Mark handed over the top and said he hoped that it would make up for the result."

Kaye added: "When James got back home to Largs, he was on cloud nine, he was just so thrilled. He was grinning from ear to ear.

"I sent a message to Largs Thistle just to thank Mark and to make him realise what an impact his kindness had.

"I also messaged Mark Millar personally as I just wanted to say thank you as his mum.

"Mark replied and said he was chuffed to have made James' day.

"I think James is hoping for is a signed photo to go with his shirt so he can frame it on his wall!".

The Largs Academy pupil lives with his family in Noddleburn Road and receives full-time support for his condition.

He uses a wheelchair and is hugely interested in history, politics and football.

James would like to become a politician and fight for disabled rights.

James has cerebral ataxia, which affects the cerebellum at the base of the brain, the area which controls movement.

He can't write due to hand tremors and had to use a computer with some to scribe for him and finds even simple tasks like lifting a cup difficult.

It is a progressive neurological disorder which over times gets worse and also results in slurred speech.

Kaye added: "It was such a thoughtful thing for Mark to do. James has been left with some great memories which will last forever."