Paul Griffiths has always had a special bond with Swansea City – and his recent 50th birthday celebrations were duly recognised by the club.

Paul, who lives at the Apley Lodge residential home in Pembroke Dock, suffered brain damage while undergoing childhood vaccinations and his family were faced with raising £2000 for critical treatment in America.

As part of the campaign, in 1976 Swansea City travelled down to play local side Pembroke Boro in a charity match, kicked off by a then seven-year-old Paul.

And against the odds he survived the ordeal and has lived way beyond the eight years of age expectancy.  He has followed Swansea closely ever since and is a season ticket holder, accompanied to games by Amanda Bentley, formerly a deputy manager of Apley Lodge.

So on his birthday, Swansea City sent him a video message and a signed shirt by all players as a thank you for his loyal support. In the video Alan Curtis, who actually played in the match in 76, gave his special wishes as did the manager Graham Potter, Lee Trundle, Bersant Celina, Connor Roberts and Oli Mcburnie.

“Paul could only ever have the treatment because of the funds raised by Swansea City and the people of Pembrokeshire,” said Amanda.

“So he has always had a special connection with the club.”