A brave toddler facing multiple serious health issues got a surprise visit from his Glasgow Clan ice hockey hero.

Three-year-old Brodie Barr, who was born premature and suffering from VACTERL syndrome, was recently allowed out of intensive care at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, following treatment for pneumonia.

The young ice hockey fan was thrilled when his favourite player, Gary Haden, dropped in for a surprise visit with gifts from The Clan.

Leona, Brodie's mum, said: "Brodie is our little miracle and we call him Brodie Barr Superstar.

"He was only three pounds when he was born and with all the medical issues, he wasn't supposed to make it into this world.

"But he's a warrior and takes everything in his stride. Brodie loves going to see The Clan and he knows the words of all the songs fans sing.

The Gazette: From left, dad, Ryan Barr; Brodie Barr; mum, Leona Barr and Glasgow Clan player Gary Haden

"Gary Haden is one of his favourite players and when Gary walked in and Brodie realised who was standing there in front of him, he was absolutely delighted.

“He was so excited all he could say was ‘Glasgow Clan, Glasgow Clan’.”

Brodie has been through fourteen major surgeries since birth due to his condition. 

Illnesses he has include spina bifida, a hole in his heart, and only one kidney that sometimes stops working.

He was also born without an oesophagus and surgeons had to fit an artificial oesophagus into his stomach.

His mum, from Irvine, added: "We were all so overwhelmed that Gary took the time out his day to visit Brodie and the look on our boy’s face said everything about how much he loved to see Gary.

“We can’t thank The Clan and Gary enough for what they have done for us. Thankfully, Brodie is now recovering from the pneumonia and Gary and The Clan have certainly helped him on his way.”

The Gazette: Mr Haden brought Clan merchandises for Brodie

The athlete brought Clan merchandise for Brodie, including a backpack with a Clan t-shirt, Clangus teddy, jumper, mug, jammies, hat and a Valentines puck.

Gary said: "Brodie’s fighting spirit in the face of all the adversity he has faced in his young life is an inspiration to us all.

"It was a privilege meeting the young lad.”

Gareth Chalmers, managing director of The Clan, said: "Gary is a tremendous ambassador for the club and ice hockey in general.

"We are a community club and the Purple Army fans are very much part of the Clan family.

"And of course, families look after each other in times of trouble and that’s what we do."