Walking out onto Portman Road will be a poignant moment for a 15-year-old football fan who is following in her late brother’s footsteps. 

Poppy Mason, from Ipswich, will be a mascot for Ipswich Town's game against West Brom which will be shown on Sky on Saturday.  

The moment comes two decades on from her late brother George who was a mascot for Town’s thrilling 6-4 match against Crewe Alexandra when he was five-and-a-half. 

He died four months later in May 2004.  

Ipswich Star: George Mason and his family received support from EACH after his diagnosis in 2004.George Mason and his family received support from EACH after his diagnosis in 2004. (Image: EACH)

Poppy, who is a season ticket holder in the Sir Alf Ramsey stand, said: “Although I wasn’t born, I’ve seen lots of photos and my parents still have the programme and tickets from the game. 

“It’ll be a very special feeling following in his footsteps and leading the players out tomorrow.” 

George was originally diagnosed with cerebral palsy but it was later thought he had a degenerative disease called Mitochondrial Depletion Syndrome. 

He was transferred to East Anglia’s Children's Hospice after tests at Addenbrooks Hospital where he received care until his death on May 27 2004.

Ipswich Star: Poppy's brother George received palliative care treatment from EACH.Poppy's brother George received palliative care treatment from EACH. (Image: EACH)

The charity has continued to support the family, with mum Sarah saying: “The staff gave us family time and space, but support when required, and the following day all our families came to say their goodbyes. 

“George remained at the hospice until his funeral on 8th June. 

“We were supported by all the staff, who also guided us with funeral arrangements as we were so young and didn’t know where to begin. 

“Our twins, Alfie and Max, who were three at the time, received months of support, as did other family members. 

“Poppy then started having counselling at The Treehouse in 2022 – ironically from the same counsellor who, all those years before, had worked with Alfie and Max. 

“We’re forever grateful for all the love and endless support we’ve received from EACH.” 

Poppy’s brother Alfie was also an Ipswich mascot for a game against Hull City in 2011. 

Ipswich Star: Poppy, 15, will walk out with the players during Saturday's clash with West Brom.Poppy, 15, will walk out with the players during Saturday's clash with West Brom. (Image: EACH)

Poppy added: “Being asked to lead the teams out is very exciting and I can’t wait to meet the players – especially my favourite, Sam Morsy.” 

EACH is the dedicated charity partner for tomorrow’s game and will have collection buckets at the game.