Pride of Devon winner recognised again 

Jack Littlejohns joins exclusive football squad

Jack Littlejohns who won the Special Recognition award at this year’s virtual Pride of Devon Awards has been recognised for his work once more as he joins England’s Lionhearts, a football squad which celebrates those who have achieved extraordinary things across the country during lockdown.

Earlier this year the English Football Association asked people to nominate inspirational individuals who have gone above and beyond during the nation’s fight against the covid-19 pandemic.

As a player with learning difficulties himself, Jack is part of the Barnstaple Ability FC, which caters for people that have either a disability or mental health issues.

He helps the club in his spare time and before the pandemic, organised a raffle draw by himself which raised more than £1250 so that disabled players could continue to enjoy the beautiful game.

He also promotes the club to disabled children in the area – whether it be on the local radio station or paying local visits to schools and colleges and talking about how football has benefited his life and helps others around him.

Once the pandemic struck, Jack helped keep the club’s players and team spirit together by sending cards and creating gift hampers before raising more funds by shaving off his hair and beard for charity.

The Lionhearts initiative, is paying homage to 23 inspirational individuals who have gone above and beyond during this challenging time for the nation and kicked-off with Captain Sir Tom Moore being named as the group's skipper.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson surprised Jack with a call to welcome him to the squad and congratulate Barnstaple Ability FC on everything they have achieved throughout the pandemic.