Last updated 19:40, Thursday, 15 May 2008

A DREAM came true for a Cockermouth School pupil when he was presented with a T-shirt and banner from a contender on the new series of Gladiators.

Fourteen-year-old Isaac McDowell is a huge fan of the Sky One show, which started last Sunday, and he likes the contenders as much as the Gladiators.

Daniel Sowerby, 29, of Main Street, Dearham, was selected from 20,000 hopefuls to be one of 16 contenders who compete in events such as Duel, Powerball, Hang Tough and The Eliminator, for a chance to win £50,000.

When Daniel heard how big a fan Isaac was, he came to the Learning Support and Autistic Facility at the school to give Isaac one of the T-shirts and banners that his crowd of 40 supporters wore when he was filming the show.

Isaac’s teacher, Anne-Marie Howe, said: “Isaac loves contenders as much as gladiators and spouts facts constantly.

“He is so excited that the new series is here. He has pictures of gladiators and contenders in his locker.

“He can’t wait to wear the T-shirt, we are going bowling and he is going to wear it then.”

Daniel has signed the shirt, which has a picture of him on it and the words Super Dan, that he has given to Isaac, of Cleator Moor.

Daniel said: “I have gave him it to make him happy. If he is the world’s biggest fan, the least I can do is give him it. I am giving a little bit back.”

Daniel will appear as a contender on Sunday night’s show at 6pm.