Nine-year-old cancer survivor gets to meet his Arsenal heroes

A nine-year-old cancer survivor had the “time of his life” on Sunday when he was the Arsenal mascot for the Emirates Cup clash with Lyon.

Radlett Preparatory pupil Samuel Van Emden and his family have been supported by Camp Simcha and the mascot opportunity came about through Arsenal’s partnership with Hertsmere Council, whose mayor, Rabbi Alan Plancey, has made Camp Simcha his charity for the year.

Samuel’s mother, Charlie, explained that during his treatment, “we didn’t want to take him to games because being in crowds would have been dangerous for him. This is only the second time he has been at the stadium. He was so excited.”

Speaking afterwards, Samuel told the JC: “I couldn’t believe I was doing it. I saw all the players up close and one of my favourites, [Pierre-Emerick] Aubameyang, even said hello to me.”