Brave schoolboy Michael Wilkinson, who lost his leg in a work experience accident, was given a boost when he met his rugby heroes.

Bradford Bulls stars broke off from training at Odsal Stadium to surprise the young fan.

Michael, 15, was all smiles as he got to hold the Rugby League Challenge Cup and chat to his favourite player, Jimmy Lowes, pictured.

Proudly wearing the Bulls shirt - signed by all the players and with his name on the back which they presented to him - the teenager said: "It's all fantastic.

"I thought I was just getting a shirt. I didn't know I would be able to hold the Cup or meet the players. They have been really nice."

The surprise visit was arranged by the Bulls and Michael's mum, Anita, 37, and stepdad Andy Hall, 46.

Michael, a pupil at Wyke Manor School, was working at Russell's stoneyard in West Bowling when he was dragged under the caterpillar tracks of a mechanical digger and his right leg was crushed.

He was trapped for five minutes and needed six blood transfusions to save his life. But doctors had to amputate his leg above the knee.

Michael is making a good recovery at home in Fenwick Drive, Woodside. His wound is healing well and he is stepping up physiotherapy.

The teenager was a keen golfer and Jimmy Lowes offered to play a game with him when he was fit enough to have a prosthetic limb fitted. Jimmy said: "He seems to like a game of golf, and so do I. You need to set yourself goals and it seemed something for him to aim for.

"He is a brave young man. He has been through something very traumatic but he is coping with it really well and what he has done so far is tremendous.

"He has been struck down not even in the prime of his life and he has a long haul ahead of him, but he seems to be doing it with a big smile on his face. He is an inspiration.

"He is talking about his new leg. He wants to get back on with his life and I don't see why he can't succeed at whatever he wants with the attitude he's got. I am happy to help him out whenever I can."

Michael also got to talk to Bulls coach Brian Noble and players Robbie Paul and Tevita Vaikona after watching the squad in training on the Odsal pitch.

Mum Anita said: "This has made Michael really happy, I'm sure it will be a boost for him."

Bulls marketing manager Stuart Duffy said: "When we heard what had happened to Michael, we wanted to get in touch and see if we could be of some comfort. We are a community club and he is a Bulls fan and we were delighted to invite him along."

The Health and Safety Executive is continuing to hold an investigation into the accident.

l Michael has also had a happy reunion with the paramedics who helped to save his life. An ambulance crew and the Yorkshire Air Ambulance were to the scene within minutes of his accident.

Michael was flown to St. James's Hospital, Leeds, arriving six minutes later.

The teenager remained conscious right until he was taken into the operating theatre.

Now he has met up again with paramedic Sheila Pride and air ambulance crew Tracy Marson and Chris McDade.

Sheila said: "Michael was incredibly brave. He didn't complain once, which is incredible when you consider what happened."

Added Tracy: "It is great to meet the people you help and a good feeling to see them alive and well. We're just part of a very big team who cared for Michael and will go on caring for him."

Michael's family has pledged to raise money for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and stepdad Andy Hall is organising a fundraising concert.