A Walton-le-Dale boy is going on a surprise trip to the USA thanks to an online golfing community.
Josh Bell, who has become something of a superstar in the #golfmates community, will be flying to Florida in March 2020 courtesy of an anonymous golfmate’s donation.
The surprise news was broken to Josh by Liam Harrison, the man behind #golfmates, in a video that has been posted on the community’s YouTube channel.
During a round of golf with Liam, who is known as “the non-golfer”, and another golfmate known as “the dick”, Josh finds a handwritten note on one of the greens.
The note says: “Dear Josh. The #golfmates have some great news for you! A golfmate from the USA is taking you to America #florida with the dick and the non-golfer.”
As Josh realises what is happening he jumps for joy and repeatedly exclaims “Oh my God!” before looking to the camera and saying “Thank you golfmates”.
In the emotional clip, Liam says: “We’re all crying, so what!”
Watch from 5:40 to see the big reveal.
Josh’s mum Sonya Leeming said: “In the last three years Josh has discovered he has a real talent and passion for golf. In September he began studying Level 1/2 BTEC Golf Studies at Myerscough College. He’s loving it and has really settled in well.
“As part of #golfmates, Josh has featured in many YouTube videos playing golf with the lads who create the videos and organise events. Through this he has become a bit of a superstar in the community.
“I am so proud, and obviously extremely grateful to the person who has made this possible for him. The golfmates are genuine, down to earth, decent blokes. It’s nice to know there are such kind people around.”
Liam said: “It all started when Josh’s dad Craig got in touch and asked if we could do a shout out for young Josh on the YouTube channel. I told him we could do one better and that we would go and surprise him.
“So we did, and from there we have fallen in love with Josh. He has to be the most respectful person I have ever met, and he just makes so many people happy.”
Josh said: “I think it’s a dream. I just can’t wait to step foot on the plane!”
The anonymous golfmate is sponsoring Josh’s flights, accommodation and green fees.
What do you think of Josh’s #golfmates surprise? Let us know in the comments below.