WINCHESTER football-mad teenager Ellie Wheatley has been made the face of the current Saints Foundation campaign.

The charity, whose soccer school she attends, is holding a 5km We March Together walk around Southampton on October 9 to mark its 20th anniversary.

Starting at Southampton Common, walkers will visit the site of the club’s former home at The Dell and St Mary’s Church before arriving at the current stadium, where there will potentially be a chance to meet some previous Saints legends.

Ellie, who lives in King’s Worthy, fronts the campaign video, explaining how weekly football training sessions at SaintsAbility Programme over the past five years have transformed her life.

Footage shows how she has blossomed into a gifted player, who’s right at the heart of the group.

The 13-year-old, who is autistic and deaf, said: “When I started, I was nervous and shy and didn’t have many friends.

“The journey I’ve had has been just unbelievable. Through SaintsAbility I’ve made friends for life.

“I’ve been able to mentor the younger players and really help them with their development.

“I like giving back to younger people who are in the same position as me.”

Proud Mum Christine Wheatley said: “Ellie’s entire life has been transformed by The Saint’s Foundation. She’s gone from being a shy child to a happy, charismatic football-mad teenager. Please join us on this fun walk to support this incredible charity.”

To sign up for the Saints Foundation walk, log onto bit.ly/wemarchtogether.