An aspiring teenage rugby referee who suffered a life-threatening brain haemorrhage will be guest of honour for his favourite team thanks to his local weekly newspaper.

The Stratford Herald has arranged the treat for avid Leicester Tigers supporter Will Baxter, who will take in the club’s European Cup fixture against Benetton Treviso on Saturday.

The Herald reported on Will’s recovery after he suffered the haemorrhage three days into a French exchange visit with his school, Alcester Grammar, in March last year.

He underwent a three-hour craniotomy in France before being flown back to Birmingham Children’s Hospital for further expert care.

Will’s recovery provided a splash for the Herald in October.

He received the surprise treat at an impromptu visit to the Herald’s offices two days before Christmas, after being told by his mum Suzanne that they were going shopping for presents.

As guest of honour, Will, who now wants to be a professional rugby referee, will meet the man in charge of Saturday’s game.

He was also given a Leicester Tigers’ shirt, track suit and a rugby ball, plus signed photos from the squad.

Herald editor Amanda Chalmers said: ”We were so touched by Will’s story and everything he’s been through this year. We wanted to try and arrange something extra special in time for Christmas.”