Winta had been nominated by Manchester United Foundation coaches to attend the staff-only Christmas event, as a reward for her hard work and dedication to her studies at Foundation partner school, Manchester Enterprise Academy. Little did she know that she would be the star of the show!

Winta expressed her shock at being selected to switch on the lights. She said “I couldn’t believe it when Wayne Rooney said my name and asked me to go on stage. I am still shaking. It was such a surprise and the best Christmas present.”

Group Managing Director and Foundation Chairman Richard Arnold said, “The Club does a lot of work in the communities around Greater Manchester and it is great to be able to offer the young people like Winta, who make that work come alive, opportunities like this.  It is a pertinent reminder at the start of the season of goodwill.”

The event is held each year to celebrate the start of the festive season at Old Trafford. Winta’s involvement is part of a series of festive surprises planned by the club for a number of dedicated and deserving fans, more of which will be revealed throughout December.