Back in July, the power of social media enabled Oldham Athletic to track down young supporter Freddie Hulley, after he sent a letter into the club wanting to be a mascot.
And now the day has come, with Freddie set to be a mascot for the Latics' Sky Bet League 1 match against Scunthorpe United this weekend.Freddie's handwritten request – simply signed ‘love Freddie’ – had arrived without contact details. So, in a bid to arrange the special day, the club took to social media to try and #FindFreddie. Thanks to the efforts of football fans across the country they were able to locate the youngster and set the wheels in motion.
Read more: Social media helps Oldham Athletic make dreams come true for young fan Freddie
"I found out about this through a friend of mine on Facebook and he said Freddie's letter was on there and I was shocked,” dad Paul told the club’s website after the mystery was solved.
"I was proud of Freddie and excited that the club wanted to hear more from Freddie. I didn't expect the reaction it has got and it's brilliant."
After successfully tracking seven-year-old Freddie down, the club invited him to the ground where he was greeted by then-manager Darren Kelly, full-back Jack Truelove and mascot Chaddy the Owl.
He had his picture taken beside the pitch and the youngster got the chance to show off his football skills before being treated to a tour of the changing rooms and the manager's office.
David Dunn is now the man in charge at Oldham, but Freddie will be among the mascots for this weekend's game against Scunthorpe, to complete a fairytale story which started with a handwritten letter.
Read more: 'Impossible' not to give David Dunn chance - Oldham Athletic chairman