A young rugby star was left delighted after receiving special birthday wishes from his favourite sporting idols.

Pharrell Comish, 10, was surprised to see Barrow Raiders star Tee Ritson and Brad Singleton from Wigan Warriors wishing him a happy birthday last Wednesday.

Mum Stacey Williams, of Hindpool, said: “He’s a massive fan of all rugby but he loves Barrow with it being local and he has always been a Wigan supporter.”

A friend of the family had mentioned Pharrell’s birthday to a member of Raiders, who arranged the surprise.

Posting the clip to the club's social media page, Ritson said: “I’ve just got a special message that I would like to deliver to one of our young superfans Pharrell Comish who is 10 years old today.

“On behalf of the Barrow Raiders we would all like to wish you a happy birthday and we hope that you have a fantastic day.”

Wigan’s Brad Singleton said: “I just want to wish you a happy 10th birthday. I know that you and many others are gutted about not watching the live games but all I wanna say is I hope you’re safe and well and have a safe lockdown – and we’ll be back on the rugby pitch in no time.”

In addition to the video, Barrow Raiders decided to gift Pharrell a personalised rucksack.

The extremely grateful youngster asked his mum to thank his role models for the special birthday messages and personalised gift.

Stacey said: “He is looking forward to seeing you all in action when you are back playing; he also says stay safe!”

Calling the videos a massive boost to sometimes-shy Pharrell’s confidence, Stacey has thanked his own rugby team for bringing him out of his shell both on and off the pitch.

She said: “He plays for Hindpool Tigers and they’ve been amazing. They are such a good family club and they’ve helped him through with his confidence issues.

“I am so proud of the lad he has become and he will continue to do so, he continuously melts my heart.”