Ex-Maidstone manager Hakan Hayrettin has given his National South title medal to a six-year-old supporter who will “treasure it for the rest of his life”.

Hayrettin struck up a friendship with the Wright family - mum Becca, dad Matt and children Joshua and Oliver - during his time as Stones boss.

Having initially planned to leave the medal on display at the Gallagher Stadium following his sacking last month, he instead passed it on to Joshua, making the schoolboy’s day.

“I have to say, we are blown away by the enormity and generosity of this,” said Joshua’s dad in a message to Hayrettin.

“Hakan, this is truly an amazing thing to do - thank you.

“When he collected the medal I don’t think it had really sunk in about what it was and how lucky he was - but it has now.

“This is something that he will absolutely treasure for the rest of his life.

“Thank you for giving up something personal to you for Joshua.”

Hayrettin and Joshua became quite the double act, with the youngster a lucky charm as Maidstone won the championship last season.

“Words cannot express how grateful Becca and I are for the time you have spent with Joshua (and Oliver)," said Matt.

“Your kindness towards them both (and towards us) has been amazing.

“He absolutely loved getting there early so he could have his little chats with you.

“The birthday card, the Christmas card, the lucky feathers near the end of the season, the high-fives and the hugs.

“No matter how busy/stressed you might have been on an important match day, you always had time for him.

“Not just you, but your players have also done the same, and I’m sure that comes from the example that you have set as their leader.

“He was devastated when he heard the news (about Hayrettin’s departure).

“He doesn’t understand that side of football - in his eyes, you were not just the manager but his friend - but he is also old enough to know that this means (in his words) ‘I’m never going to see him again’.

“All I can say is I absolutely wish you the best for the future.”