Billy the Bantam shows he’s not a chicken! (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Billy the Bantam shows he’s not a chicken!

10:00am Monday 21st January 2013 in Bantams By Sports Desk

Billy the Bantam is not scared of a bit of hard graft.

He has been taken under the wing of a fitness expert to get in shape for his possible trip to Wembley next month.

The City mascot – along with those from the three other Capital One Cup semi-finalists – has been put through a rigorous training regime.

Charlotte Ord, who was named personal trainer of the year for 2012, is in charge of trimming the flab for Billy and his counterparts – Swansea’s Cyril Swan, Hercules the Lion from Aston Villa and Chelsea’s lion Stamford.

The cuddly foursome have been given strict instructions to watch their food intake, as well as perfecting a number of fitness drills, including practice lifts of the Capital One Cup trophy.

They are also undergoing several video challenges against each other.

Ord said: “January is a time of year when people feel a bit sluggish after a heavy Christmas and unfortunately our club mascots are no different.

“I’ve created a plan that will ensure the finalists are flying down Wembley Way next month for the Capital One Cup final.”

The mascot challenges videos can be viewed at www.facebook.com/ CapitalOneUK.