BRAVE youngster David Grundy met his Bolton Wanderers hero Dean Holdsworth -- and promptly gave him a massive hug.

David, from Little Lever, joined Deano at the Wanderers training ground yesterday after the striker dedicated his match-winning goal to the six-year-old last Saturday.

David, who suffers from life-threatening disease Leigh's Syndrome, was guest of honour at the Reebok.

The youngster, a pupil at Little Lever's Mytham County Primary School, watched intently as the fans' favourite wrapped up the three points after telling him before the game "I'll get the winner for you."

And after the match, Holdsworth immediately teamed up with the Bolton Evening News to pledge his autographed Man-of-the-Match bubbly, a signed shirt and a pair of tickets for the last home game of the season against Sheffield United on May 6, as a prize.

Touched by David's story, the soccer star vowed to raise money for Derian House -- a local children's hospice which supplies vital care and support for both David and his family.

Now the Reebok star is counting on BEN readers to bid for the prize in a huge auction to raise cash. Holdsworth, whose own son Jordan celebrated his sixth birthday last week, told the BEN yesterday: "It is a really worthwhile cause and after meeting David I can now appreciate my own health. It makes you realise how lucky you are."

David's father, also called David, this week recalled the terrifying moment he had to revive his son after finding him lying motionless in bed.

Brave David is thought to be one of only three people worldwide who suffer from the rare genetic disorder which attacks the body's muscles.

But today Mr Grundy said: "This was David's big day and he has been really excited about meeting his favourite player Deano. Every match David has been to Deano has scored.

"Derian House is a really worthwhile cause. They provide the support and relief for both David and ourselves."

And Holdsworth added: "I am really glad to help and it is a really important cause. I am glad that I have made David's day."

David, who plans to frame his signed shirt and keep it on his bedroom wall, admitted to being really excited before he met his hero, and said: "Deano is my favourite player because he is the best."

Bids will be taken up to tonight and you can make yours by writing to: Sports Desk, Bolton Evening News, Newspaper House, Bolton, BL1 1DE or by phone to the Holdsworth Hotline on 01204 361 266.