An inspirational Preston dad was beaming from the TV screen while the city munched on their cornflakes.
AdvertisementBen Ashworth was given a surprise birthday party live on Good Morning Britain on Friday 17 June.
Presenter Richard Arnold walked in to present Ben, who has been diagnosed with terminal bowel cancer, with his ‘Hero Dad’ award.
Related: Watch as Ben Ashworth and family open up on bowel cancer fight
At 7.53am he was taken to Stoke City’s Britannia Stadium and surprised by his wife Louise, their children and many of his friends.
An emotional Ben said: “What an amazing surprise! Thanks to Good Morning Britain and my beloved Stoke City for creating a really special memory and to my amazing wife and girls and friends and family for keeping the secret.
“I really couldn’t believe it when Richard Arnold walked out. I was bowled over when I saw everyone. Really impressed no one let the cat out of the bag. What sneaky people I know.
“The perfect way to spend time with some of my most nearest and dearest ahead of my surgery. So excited to be meeting Mark Hughes and the Stoke City players at the training ground when I’m better. Thanks so much everyone!”
Related: Ben and wife Louise complete London Marathon
Ben, who lives in Broadgate, has been running marathons since his cancer diagnosis to raise money for Beating Bowel Cancer.