By Ross Jeavons

Five years ago Sergio Torres was a part-time footballer, buffering his salary with the occasional shift at a local 'Boots' store.

Perhaps then the irony won't have been lost on the Argentine midfielder, as he signed autographs for loyal fans just outside that same chain on Wednesday afternoon.

It was all part of the Blues' involvement in the Eden Centre's 'Sports Day', as Torres and team captain David McCracken took time out to tour the brand new shopping complex.

Club mascot Bodger also tagged along as local kids posed for pictures and received special goody bags from the first team stars.

The promotion chasing duo were keen to join in all the fun, juggling basketballs with on stage performers and even impressing on lookers with their skittling skills at 'AMF Bowling'.

It was there that 'Cracks' and 'Serg' were upstaged for once in the sporting arena, as Bodger managed a strike by throwing the ball through his legs. The larger than life mascot was understood to be delighted, but was unavailable for comment!

Browsing shoppers were more than impressed with the event, as the Wanderers won over some new fans with their effort to integrate the team and the town.

Pamela Clifton, 42, from Downley said: "It was all really good fun, the players were so friendly. They posed for pictures with my son and signed his shirt, it's nice to see them making the effort."

Ex-Dundee United skipper McCracken was also impressed with the way the day panned out.

"It was a really good day and we enjoyed ourselves, even if Serg didn't get as many strikes as me!" said 'Cracks'.

"Events like that are really good for publicity for the club and they allow us to integrate with the community. Hopefully we can encourage some new supporters to come along to a game too."

Keep checking wwfc.com for a full photo gallery from the day.
With thanks to Dave Marriott for the photography
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