NUFC Scholars Rory and Harry Powell from Ponteland have thanked their MP, Guy Opperman after he helped to expedite their passport applications to ensure they attended a crucial pre-season training camp.
Mum, Catriona Powell was concerned that Harry and Rory’s new passports wouldn’t arrive in time for this season’s Pinatar training camp just outside of Alicante for this years' pre-season training in July.
Catriona contacted Guy Opperman for help as despite completing Rory and Harry’s new passport forms in April, they still hadn’t heard anything, and it looked they may miss out on their training camp.
The MP contacted the Passport Office and expedited the process so that Rory and Harry’s passports arrived in time for the training camp.
Guy recently met up with Rory and Harry to hear about the pre-season training, their football journeys so-far and the season ahead.
After meeting Guy Opperman, Catriona Powell said:
“Rory and Harry were over the moon to meet Mr Opperman as they felt a need to personally thank him for stepping in to expediate their passports.
Without his help they would not have arrived in time for them to travel. He has enabled them to experience a once in a life-time opportunity, which has kicked off their journey as full time NUFC scholars.”
Guy Opperman MP said:
“I was delighted to assist Rory and Harry with their passport applications.
It was great to meet them in person and to hear about their football journeys so-far.
I wish them the best of luck in their careers at NUFC.”
Explaining Rory and Harry’s football journeys so far and what the pre-season training camp meant, Catriona added:
“A treasured memory was when they graced the hallowed turf of St James' Park in a match against Lincoln when still on trial.
They both said that their greatest influence has been their long-time mentor ex-pro George Smith who lives locally. They say that he has made them the players they are today.
They both relished the chance to go to the Pinatar training camp just outside Alicante for this years' pre-season training in July .
Despite me completing passport forms online in April, the summer rush caused our delay. They loved training in the warmer weather and feel it has put them in good stead for the season ahead.”
Rory Powell added:
“Harry and I both played midfield for Red House Farm at grass roots level and it is here that we have the fondest memories.
After joining the team and going into our second and third seasons there, our boys' team went on to win several tournaments, every cup competition we were involved in and also the league!"
Harry Powell said:
"A highlight for me was when playing for Red House, we made it through to the final and played in a national tournament at St George's Park and won."
They both said their main achievement was signing for NUFC in 2020.