He is one of the most well-known characters in Cumbrian football - and news of his retirement has not gone unnoticed.

Bradley Hodgson, who has been leading his beloved Penrith AFC out as mascot for the past 17 years, recently announced that this season would be his last in the role.

And Penrith's first opponents of the new Northern League campaign, Ashington AFC, ensured that Bradley's many years of commitment to the Frenchfield Park club would be recognised.

In a brilliant gesture, the north east club had a shirt specially made with 'Bradley 17' on the back.

They also wrote a letter to the 24-year-old paying tribute to his commitment and service to Penrith and non-league football.

Ashington presented Bradley with his gifts before Saturday's game, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Their letter was written by Ashington manager Ian Skinner.

He said: "Myself and everyone at Ashington AFC would like to congratulate you for 17 years as Penrith AFC mascot.

"We have read that you are stepping down. You have given amazing service to the club.

"We always enjoy our visits to Penrith and you offer us a warm welcome when we arrive.

"Everyone at Ashington hopes you enjoy the season."

Bradley and his faimly said they really appreciated the kind gesture from Penrith's visitors.

The long-serving mascot recently told the News & Star this season would be his last in the role because he wants someone else to have the chance.

News and Star: The letter to Bradley Hodgson from Ashington AFCThe letter to Bradley Hodgson from Ashington AFC

“I’ve done it since I was seven,” Bradley said. “I want someone younger to come in and do it now.”

Bradley’s long association with the mascot role is such that he remembers leading the team out at Penrith’s previous home of Southend Road.

He continued after the club moved to Frenchfield Park and is known as one of the club’s biggest supporters.

Bradley, who has Down’s Syndrome, has always been embraced by Penrith, where his family have long-standing involvement at the club.

Dad Stuart is a former Penrith player and both he and wife Kim have long been involved behind the scenes at the club.

Back in 2015 Bradley, from Culgaith, also had the honour of playing for England Mencap team in Switzerland.

Dave Hewson's Penrith side started their Northern League Division One campaign with a point on Saturday, as Luke Brown scored twice for the hosts either side of goals from Ashington's Ryan McGorrigan and Karl Ross.

Penrith keeper Luke Miller saved a penalty while Hewson's hosts hit the woodwork three times as they came close to victory in a strong second-half display.