Swimming sensation Joseph Smith yesterday enjoyed another day to remember as he led his footballing heroes in to action.

Joseph, who earlier this month won a Northern Echo Local Heroes award for his antics after single-handedly winning a Cub Scout swimming gala, was invited to be Hartlepool United's mascot for last night's FA Cup tie with Southend at Victoria Park.

Pool supporter Joseph, ten, of Sherburn Hill, Durham, and his family were invited to the game after club chairman Ken Hodcroft recognised his achievements.

Joseph, who made national headlines after collecting the Local Heroes award, spent yesterday afternoon in the company of Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond. He enjoyed a tour of the Civic Centre, visited the Historic Quay and the HMS Trincomalee, and had a ride around the town in the mayor's limousine.

Joseph said: "It has been brilliant. We had a great time with the mayor and I then met all the Pool's players."